There are many phrases we associate with long video game sessions, such as “Just one more run” and “Maybe this is the one”. They’re clear signs that a game has gotten its hooks into us and that we’re helpless to try and avoid playing any more than we already are. This isn’t through manipulation but is instead a way that developers can create immersive, addictive experiences that are almost impossible to walk away from.
In this article, we’ll take a closer look at the core game mechanics that help create addictive gaming experiences, as we attempt to understand the psychology of why we can’t stop playing our favorite video games. We’ll explore what makes games such as Hades and Helldivers II so compelling, as well as how online slots can tap into this as we aim to understand why we love spending our free time playing video games.
The dopamine loop and how games keep you hooked
The brain has been found to release dopamine not only when we are rewarded but also when we are anticipating a reward, which is something that game developers have been able to tap into. Game developers have been able to do this by crafting unpredictable outcomes that keep players guessing at all times, providing small wins at regular intervals and unlocking surprises such as rare items or bonus mini-games.
These are called positive feedback loops and are typically comprised of actions (clicks, triggers and spins), reactions (sounds, animations or flashes), and rewards (bonus points, extra loot or in-game currency). In popular games, such as Hades and Helldivers II, there is a careful balance of these elements that has been crafted to create experiences that deliver the perfect amount of dopamine to keep players coming back for more.
The hellish design and addictive allure of Hades
Released in 2020, Hades is an action-based game that combines fast, fluid gameplay with tight combat and the need for strategic thinking. Due to the variability built into the game, each run feels unique and refreshing, which helps even veteran players feel at home despite having played the game before. As they progress through the story, players can unlock rare weapons and shiny upgrades.
The progress and restart mechanism in Hades helps players find new ways to complete levels, with only minor changes needed to keep them engaged. Even if they fail during a particular run, they can still learn from their mistakes while being able to keep any loot, and progress in the wider game. This upside adds another angle to the “Just one more run” phrase we mentioned at the start of the article.
The multiplayer mayhem and social aspect of Helldivers II
Helldivers II is one of the most popular games in the world at the moment and is incredibly addictive because it combines complete and utter chaos with memorable multiplayer moments. By being able to play with others, players have the motivation to play for longer – especially when completing missions. This is intensified by the fact that they can play very specific missions with time-limited objectives and online battles.
It’s widely accepted that immersive games with social mechanics build loyalty and create a sense of FOMO, short for ‘fear of missing out’. Players can stay up to date with regular updates and participate in community events, all while improving their stats with each playthrough. The game is addictive because players can share in the success of their friends and learn from their mistakes, which benefits them in the long term.
The risk-reward aspect of online slots
Slot games are, by design, very simple and require very little in terms of effort. This, combined with the high anticipation of potential prizes, makes them a popular option for those wanting to try something new. With unpredictable outcomes, flashy displays and exciting noises, slot games help players work toward a grand prize that has the added incentive of providing a dopamine hit to those receiving a reward.
These reward mechanisms help create a connection between the player and the game but can be addictive which is why licensed casinos where players can play online pokies for real money follow protocols to ensure their players play responsibly.
Traditional video games borrow these mechanics in many different ways, ranging from loot boxes, as seen on FIFA and Overwatch, to gear drops as used in Destiny 2 and Battlefront 2.
Balancing player agency and developer control
Players become addicted to games because they feel as though they’re in control at all times. This builds an emotional investment, which feeds into the loop in which players continue playing because they can’t imagine doing anything else, especially when rewards are available to unlock.
When players have control over the outcome, even if it’s randomly generated by the game itself, they feel responsible for the success. This success then feeds into their psyche and they want to play another game in an effort to continue winning and unlocking prizes and loot.
Skill bars help players feel as though they’re progressing at all times. These mechanisms include skill trees, XP bars and new skins that, while having little effect on gameplay, have a huge impact on engagement. These games often provide just enough in terms of rewards and progression to keep players hooked.
Final thoughts
An addictive game isn’t one that’s evil but is instead one that has had a lot of time and effort poured into it in order to create a compelling experience that players will come back to time and time again. These games reward anticipation and mastery of skills in a way that delivers a dopamine hit without them getting anything in the real world, although the slot games that we mentioned earlier do come with the potential for big winnings.
So, the next time you feel as though a game has you hooked, ask yourself why that might be the case, and whether you are coming back for the gameplay, the allure of awards or are simply chasing that next hit of dopamine.