From the sacred rituals of online communities to the moral dilemmas of post-apocalyptic worlds, this section explores how games mirror — and shape — human psychology. Discover how cognition, emotion, identity, and storytelling collide in digital spaces, revealing what play can teach us about ourselves, our culture, and the worlds we build together.
Why Pokémon Still Has No Voice Acting: A Considered Look at Twenty Years of Silence
Why do mainline Pokémon games still have no voice acting after 20 years? This analysis examines handheld habits, player expectations, development choices, and the contrast with the Pokémon anime to explain the franchise's enduring commitment to silent storytelling.
Decoding Gamer Motivation: A Critical Look at the Psychogenic Equilibrium Theory
Explore a critical review of the Psychogenic Equilibrium Theory of Gamer Motivation (PETGaMo) a ground-breaking framework that decodes why players game. Compare it with Bartle’s Taxonomy and Self-Determination Theory to see how PETGaMo bridges psychology and game design.
Are Video Games Actually “Games”?
Are video games still "games"? Explore how modern titles like Journey and Minecraft challenge traditional definitions, blending art, narrative, and play in today's evolving interactive media landscape.
Beyond the Stamina Bar: Why we Should Adopt Heart Rate Mechanics
Discover why replacing traditional stamina bars with heart rate mechanics can enhance immersion, realism, and psychological depth in video games. Explore the future of immersive gameplay
Mastering Virtual World Design: Balancing Freedom for Bartle’s Player Types
Discover how Bartle’s (2004) four player archetypes—Achievers, Explorers, Socialisers, and Killers—shape engaging virtual worlds, and explore strategies for harmonizing open-world freedom with structured gameplay.”
Why Psychology Matters in Video Game Development
Discover why psychology is essential in video game development. Learn how understanding player behavior, emotions, and engagement enhances user experience, drives commercial success, and creates immersive gaming experiences. Explore the psychology behind game design, motivation, and player retention.
Must-Read Psychology Books for Video Game Developers
Discover the 10 best psychology books for video game developers! Learn how player motivation, flow, and emotion shape great game design. Level up your skills today!
Cognitive Dissonance in Video Game Character Design and Enviromental Factors
Discover how cognitive dissonance in video games affects player immersion, from inconsistent character behaviour to illogical game mechanics. Learn how developers can avoid common pitfalls and even use dissonance as a powerful storytelling tool.
Point-and-Click Adventure Games: Pure Moon Logic or an Expression of Divergent Thinking?
Explore the fascinating world of point-and-click adventure games in our in-depth article. Discover whether their quirky puzzles are pure moon logic or a testament to divergent thinking. Uncover the genre's history, evolution, and the balance between creativity and frustration that defines these beloved games.
How Generosity Fuels Profits: Soft Power and Goodwill in the Gaming Industry:
This strategy highlights how fostering positive relationships with gamers can yield financial success, brand loyalty, and increased market share.
Psychological Impact on Art and Animation
Explore how principles of psychology, including visual perception, emotional design, and character development, inform art and animation in video games
Psychological Principles in Programming for Game Development
Explore the psychological impacts on various aspects of game programming, including AI behaviour, user feedback, and the overall user experience
Psychological Theories of Motivation in Video Game Development
Explore key psychological theories of motivation, including Self-Determination Theory, Flow Theory, and Reinforcement Theory, and examines how they can be applied to video game development.