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.
Sleeping on the Sacred Bridge: A Psychological Exploration of Wholesome Cults in Online Worlds
Discover the psychology behind ESO’s Sleeps-On-Bridges, a “wholesome cult” that reveals how gamers create ritual, belonging, and digital sacred spaces.
So You Think You Can Stream
Unpack the hidden psychology of live streaming. Discover the extreme cognitive load, multitasking demands, and complex parasocial relationships that make Twitch streaming a high-skill job.
Romance as Reward: The Transactional Logic of Relationships in Video Games and Its Psychological Implications
Explore how video games portray romance through transactional mechanics and the psychological impact this may have on real-life relationships, intimacy, and social expectations.
From Player One to Player Two: Mario, Luigi, and the Reflection of Sibling Hierarchies
Explore how the iconic Mario and Luigi dynamic reflects real-life sibling hierarchies. This deep dive combines psychology, media analysis, and gaming culture to uncover the hidden messages behind 'Player One' and 'Player Two'.
GGEZLOL: How the Language of the Internet Creates a Bar to Entry
Explore how internet slang, memes, and emojis shape modern communication. Learn about generational divides, cultural barriers, and ways to create inclusive digital spaces in 2024.
Are We Shaping Future Societies Through Virtual Economies?
Discover how video game economies like EVE Online mirror real-world finance, influencing players' views on money, trade, and ethics. Learn about the psychological and societal effects of virtual economies, from financial literacy to ethical challenges and future societal norms.
From Sage to Sidekick: Has the Wise Old Man of Jungian Mythology Transformed into the 'Pint-Sized Pal' of Video Games?
Explore how video games transformed the wise old man archetype into quirky companions. Explore the evolution of mentorship in gaming, from Merlin to Navi, and discover why these pint-sized pals are more than just comic relief.
The Power of Choice: How Video Games Shape Our Moral Compass
Explore how video games shape our moral compass, delving into the psychological mechanisms at play.
Psychological Effects of Character Customization in Video Games
In this article we explore the psychological effects of character customization in video games, supported by recent peer-reviewed research.
Psychology of Default Shaming in Online Games
This article explores the psychological underpinnings of default shaming, its impact on players, and strategies to mitigate its negative effects.
The Social and Psychological Impact of Online Multiplayer Games
The advent of online multiplayer games has transformed the landscape of gaming, enabling players to connect and collaborate with others from around the world. Beyond their entertainment value, these games have profound social and psychological implications. In this article, we will explore the ways in which online multiplayer games influence social interactions, relationships, and psychological well-being.