During the last 10 years, numerous mixed-reality game prototypes have been built and studied. This paper is a game studies attempt at understanding the findings of that research. First, this paper will look into the paradigm of pervasive mixed-reality game research, analyzing how these games have been produced and studied. Then, there is an overview of some central, reoccurring findings of that paradigm that is written with the intent of generalizing lessons of individual experiments. Finally, there is a discussion on research methodology, analyzing how this type of research could better validate the findings that have to do with play experiences and game design.