Elucidating the Factors of Addiction in Games

Abstract

This study investigates the factors that lead users to become deeply engaged in games—what we call a “hooked” state. Through four experiments using card games, three key factors emerged: a good tempo that provides immediate feedback, an optimal level of challenge, and shared excitement from unexpected outcomes. These elements appear to encourage immersion and repeated play. Future work includes A/B testing modified game rules to verify these findings and exploring relationships between game preference and players’ personality traits.