Videogame player experiences with micro-transactions: An interpretative phenomenological analysis

Videogame player experiences with micro-transactions: An interpretative phenomenological analysis

Videogame player experiences with micro-transactions: An interpretative phenomenological analysis

Erin Gibson, Mark D. Griffiths, Filipa Calado, Andrew Harris

Abstract

"Videogame monetisation methods have become a billion-dollar industry. Concerns surrounding micro-transaction use and potential negative psychological impact have become prevalent in recent years. For example, there is a suggested association between loot box buying and problem gambling, although this does not capture the nuanced experiences of players with a broad range of micro-transactions. The present study aimed to identify convergences and divergences in videogame player experiences with micro-transactions, using interpretative phenomenological analysis. Eleven participants took part in online semi-structured interviews. Interviews focused on participants’ feelings, beliefs and motivations surrounding micro-transaction use. Six super-ordinate themes were identified: (i) self-control vs. impulsivity, (ii) motivations for use, (iii) obligation to play after purchases, (iv) guilt and regret, (v) feeling tricked or cheated and (vi) comparing micro-transaction use and gambling. Sub-themes relating to motivations for micro-transaction use and comparisons between micro-transaction and gambling also emerged.Key motivations for micro-transaction use were giving back to or ‘rewarding’ game developers for their work and social connectedness. Participants who engaged with battle pass micro-transactions often felt a sense of obligation to continue playing the game after purchasing. Micro-transaction use was explained by participants' need for autonomy, relatedness, and competence. It is recommended that cognitive behavioural therapy could be used to treat maladaptive cognitive beliefs related to micro-transaction use."

Reference

Gibson, E., Griffiths, M. D., Calado, F., & Harris, A. (2023). Videogame player experiences with micro-transactions: An interpretative phenomenological analysis. Computers in Human Behavior, 145, 107766. https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0747563223001176

Keywords

Micro-transactions, Videogames, Problematic gaming