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.
Press Start to Feel Better: Mood Management, Gamer Motivation, and the Psychology Behind Game Choices
Explore how Mood Management Theory, Bartle’s taxonomy, Nick Yee’s gamer motivations, and PETGaMo together reveal the psychology behind why players choose games to regulate moods and achieve psychological balance.
Rage Quit or Power Up? Understanding Frustration in Video Games
Delve into the psychological underpinnings of frustration in video games, exploring its causes, effects, and potential benefits
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.
The Role of Psychology in UX Design for Video Games
Explore key psychological principles that influence UX in video games, including motivation, flow, feedback, social interaction, and cognitive load.
Why We Spend: The Psychology of Virtual Currencies in Online Games
This article explores the psychological reasoning behind the use of virtual currencies in online gaming, examining how these systems influence player behaviour and drive engagement. By drawing on peer-reviewed research, we aim to provide a comprehensive understanding of the psychological mechanisms at play.
The Power of Dopamine and Reward Pathways in Online Gaming: Exploring Exploitation and Player Well-being
Online gaming is a global phenomenon, captivating millions upon millions of players. Central to the allure of online gaming is the manipulation of dopamine and reward pathways in the brain. While these mechanisms enhance enjoyment and motivation, concerns have been raised about their potential exploitation by game developers. This article delves into the psychological underpinnings of dopamine and reward pathways in online gaming and examines the ethical implications of their exploitation.
The Psychology of In-Game Rewards: How Video Games Keep Us Hooked
Video games have evolved from simple pastimes to complex interactive experiences that captivate players for hours on end. One of the key elements contributing to their allure is the use of in-game rewards. These rewards, ranging from virtual items and achievements to experience points and loot, play a significant role in keeping players engaged and motivated. In this article, we'll delve into the psychology behind in-game rewards and how they are designed to keep players hooked.