Mobile game addiction is a growing concern, and “Mobile Game Addiction” explores the underlying psychological mechanisms that make these games so captivating. It examines how game design leverages psychological principles like variable reward schedules to keep players engaged, sometimes to a detrimental extent.
The book highlights the ethical implications of in-app purchases and loot boxes, revealing how cognitive biases are exploited to encourage spending.
The book's approach is to dissect mobile game design, focusing on elements like push notifications and daily rewards. It then delves into the psychology behind spending, examining how scarcity and framing influence player behavior.
It uses academic research, industry reports, and case studies to analyze the long-term effects of mobile game overuse, including potential impacts on mental health and relationships.
The book progresses from a historical overview of mobile gaming to an exploration of addictive behaviors, and finally, strategies for promoting healthier gaming habits. It aims to empower readers with the knowledge to understand and navigate the world of mobile gaming responsibly, addressing concerns about gaming disorder and promoting a balanced approach to digital entertainment.
