The relationship between game genre, monetization strategy and symptoms of gaming disorder in a clinical sample of adolescents
Gaming disorder, recognized by the World Health Organization, is characterized by impaired control over gaming, prioritization of gaming over other activities, and continuation of gaming despite negative consequences.
Recent studies have explored the relationship between game genres, monetization strategies, and the prevalence of gaming disorder symptoms, particularly among adolescents.
Game Genres and Gaming Disorder
Research indicates that preferences for certain game genres can influence the likelihood of developing gaming disorder symptoms.
For instance, Massively Multiplayer Online Role-Playing Games (MMORPGs) and First-Person Shooters (FPS) are often associated with higher engagement levels, which may increase the risk of addiction.
The immersive and social nature of these games can lead to prolonged gaming sessions, contributing to the development of problematic gaming behaviors.
Monetization Strategies and Their Impact
Monetization strategies within games, such as loot boxes, microtransactions, and gacha mechanics, have been linked to increased gaming disorder symptoms.
These features often employ variable reward systems, similar to gambling mechanisms, which can encourage repetitive spending and prolonged play. Studies have shown that such monetization models can exacerbate addictive behaviors, especially in vulnerable populations like adolescents.
Adolescents and Vulnerability
Adolescents are particularly susceptible to developing gaming disorder due to various factors, including developmental stage, peer influence, and a higher propensity for risk-taking behaviors.
The integration of gambling-like elements in games, such as loot boxes, can serve as a gateway to gambling addiction. Reports have highlighted cases where young individuals, initially engaged in gaming, progressed to gambling activities, leading to significant personal and financial consequences.
Conclusion
The interplay between game genres, monetization strategies, and the prevalence of gaming disorder symptoms underscores the need for awareness among players, parents, and policymakers.
Understanding these relationships is crucial for developing effective prevention and intervention strategies to mitigate the risks associated with problematic gaming behaviors.
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The Interplay Between Game Genre, Monetization Strategies, and Gaming Disorder in Adolescents
Introduction
Video gaming has rapidly evolved from a niche hobby into a mainstream global phenomenon, engaging billions of players across various age groups. While gaming has been recognized for its cognitive, social, and entertainment benefits, it also poses risks, particularly when excessive gaming behaviors lead to the development of Gaming Disorder (GD).
The World Health Organization (WHO) officially classified Gaming Disorder (GD) in the International Classification of Diseases 11th Revision (ICD-11) as a mental health condition.
It is characterized by impaired control over gaming, prioritization of gaming over other activities, and continuation of gaming despite negative consequences (WHO, 2019).
This classification sparked an increase in academic interest, with studies exploring the factors contributing to GD, including game genre preferences, monetization models, and their psychological impact.
Understanding why certain games and monetization models pose higher risks is critical for researchers, parents, policymakers, and the gaming industry. This article delves into how different game genres, monetization strategies, and psychological factors contribute to GD, particularly among adolescents.
The Growing Prevalence of Gaming Disorder Among Adolescents
Gaming disorder affects a small but significant percentage of the population, with global prevalence estimated at 1.96% (Stevens et al., 2021). The disorder is more common among male adolescents, with risk factors including:
- Younger age groups (12-18 years)
- Pre-existing mental health conditions (ADHD, anxiety, depression, OCD)
- High engagement in competitive or immersive gaming genres
- Frequent exposure to monetization models encouraging continuous spending
A survey in Sweden found that 68% of 13–16-year-olds and 55% of 17–18-year-olds play video games daily (Swedish Media Council, 2022). While gaming can be a positive recreational activity, excessive gaming has been linked to emotional dysregulation, sleep disturbances, poor academic performance, and even suicidal ideation (King et al., 2019).
Game Genre and Its Role in Gaming Disorder
1. The Impact of Game Genre on Gaming Disorder Symptoms
The genre of a game can significantly influence the risk of addiction. Certain genres, especially those with social and competitive elements, tend to be more engaging, leading to prolonged gaming sessions.
Research has classified video game genres into several broad categories, including:
- Competitive Games (MOBA, FPS, Sports, RTS)
- Story-Driven Games (RPG, Action-Adventure)
- Simulation & Strategy Games (Building, Farming, Civilization-type)
- Massively Multiplayer Online Games (MMORPG, Survival, Co-op)
- Casual Games (Mobile games, Platformers, Puzzle-based games)
2. Which Game Genres Have Higher Addiction Potential?
Competitive Games (MOBA, FPS, Sports)
- Highest association with Gaming Disorder symptoms due to the highly engaging competitive ranking systems.
- Examples: League of Legends, Call of Duty, Fortnite, Valorant, FIFA.
- Psychological Triggers:
- Reward-based ranking systems that encourage "one more match" behavior.
- Social pressure from multiplayer teams.
- Fear of missing out (FOMO) on daily or seasonal rewards.
Massively Multiplayer Online Role-Playing Games (MMORPGs)
- Games like World of Warcraft, Destiny, and Genshin Impact require long-term commitment, making it easier for players to develop compulsive gaming habits.
- Psychological Triggers:
- Persistent online worlds encourage continuous engagement.
- Social bonds in gaming communities create emotional investment.
- Grinding and leveling systems mimic real-world progression, leading to prolonged play.
Story-Driven Games (RPG, Action-Adventure)
- Lower risk of Gaming Disorder symptoms due to narrative-driven, single-player experiences.
- Examples: The Witcher 3, Fallout, Horizon Zero Dawn.
- Psychological Triggers:
- Engagement is based on story immersion rather than competitive pressure.
- Lack of multiplayer interaction reduces social obligations to keep playing.
Casual and Mobile Games
- Unexpectedly high addiction potential despite being designed for short sessions.
- Examples: Candy Crush, Geometry Dash, Clash Royale.
- Psychological Triggers:
- Short, repetitive reward loops mimic gambling mechanics.
- Easy access and mobile availability lead to continuous engagement throughout the day.
3. ADHD, ASD, and Game Genre Preferences
Studies have found a strong correlation between ADHD and gaming disorder, particularly in competitive and fast-paced games. Inattentive ADHD symptoms have been linked to higher gaming disorder symptoms (Nielsen et al., 2022).
On the other hand, individuals with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) tend to prefer Story-driven or Simulation games, where structured environments and predictable mechanics provide comfort.
Monetization Strategies: The Hidden Trap of Gaming Disorder
1. Understanding In-Game Monetization Models
The way a game is monetized plays a huge role in addiction potential. The two main models are:
A. Pay-to-Play (P2P)
- Players pay a one-time upfront cost for the full game.
- Example: The Witcher 3, Fallout, Red Dead Redemption.
- Lower addiction risk as there’s no pressure to make repeated payments.
B. Free-to-Play (F2P)
- Games are free to download but use microtransactions and in-game purchases to generate revenue.
- Examples: Fortnite, Apex Legends, Genshin Impact.
- High addiction risk due to mechanics like:
- Loot boxes (gambling-like elements).
- Pay-to-win purchases (power-ups, upgrades).
- Daily login rewards that create a habit loop.
2. The Gambling-Like Nature of Loot Boxes
Loot boxes function similarly to gambling:
- They provide randomized rewards, triggering dopamine release.
- Players often spend real money for a chance at rare in-game items.
- Countries like Belgium and the Netherlands have already banned loot boxes, citing gambling addiction risks.
3. How Monetization Models Affect Gaming Disorder
Studies have consistently shown that F2P gamers experience higher Gaming Disorder symptoms than P2P gamers (Dreier et al., 2022). Players who engage in microtransactions tend to report higher levels of psychological distress.
The Future of Gaming Regulation and Player Protection
With the rise of gaming addiction concerns, several countries are introducing regulations:
- EU & UK: Discussions about banning loot boxes.
- China: Implements daily gaming limits for minors.
- Australia: Advocating for age restrictions on microtransactions (The Guardian).
Final Thoughts: Can We Monetize Gaming Without Encouraging Addiction?
The gaming industry must find a balance between profitability and responsible gaming. While monetization strategies are essential for revenue, ethical game design should prioritize player well-being.
For users looking to earn rewards through gaming without the negative impacts of microtransactions, platforms like RapidoReach offer a healthier alternative. By participating in rewarded surveys, users can monetize their gaming time without gambling-like mechanics.
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Written By
Vikash Kumar
February 8, 2025