Have you ever tried to figure out what goes on in the minds of online gamers? If so, then you know that it can be a confusing journey. It’s like trying to decipher a secret code no one knows how to read.
Video gamers have varied preferences and expect a wide range of innovative features from new releases. That is why, to launch successful video games, developers need to find a guaranteed way of comprehending what their audiences want. While this task can seem challenging, it is doable when following the proper criteria.
Decoding the Psyche of Online Video Gamers
When attempting to understand the mind of an online video gamer, you should consider a few key points:
- Gamers tend to become emotionally invested in their gaming experience. They often develop connections and form strong attachments with the characters and events in their gameplay.
- Gamers have an eye for detail. They can detect mistakes or inconsistencies that others may miss. As a result, they can become frustrated when developers fail to address or correct them in the game.
- Gamers find motivation in progress and success. They are highly goal-oriented and will do whatever it takes to complete their objectives — however challenging they may be.
How Players Make Decisions in the Virtual World
The key to unlocking the mind of an online video gamer is being aware of their decision-making process. These players rely on their knowledge and experience to make choices quickly, considering potential rewards, the risks of failure, and other relevant factors. When presented with a challenge or situation, they will analyze it rapidly and decide on the best course of action.
As mentioned earlier, gamers are emotionally driven. As a result, feelings like excitement or frustration can shape their reactions and decisions. Therefore, being aware of their emotional state when communicating with them or introducing them to a new gaming product or feature can be incredibly beneficial.
Identifying the Player Archetype
To better understand the psychology of online gamers and tap into their behavior, you should identify three main types of player archetypes:
- The hardcore player: This type is highly committed to their gaming experience. They invest significant time and effort into the game, pushing themselves to their limits. In addition, they are willing to spend money to progress in the game and are eager to compete in tournaments or live stream their gameplay.
- The social player: These gamers emphasize the sense of community derived from playing with friends or family. They tend to be more relaxed and far less competitive than hardcore gamers but still have a strong allegiance to their gaming groups.
- The casual player: This archetype values convenience and accessibility, as well as immediacy in terms of rewards and validation from achievements. Casual players prefer straightforward game experiences with little-to-no risk regarding investment or commitment.
Crafting Content for Replayability
Gamers value products that allow them to do something different every time they play and explore the world. That’s why developers can benefit from analyzing their new releases’ replay value. Keep in mind that most players love games that challenge them, so make sure you create content that provides them with new levels for each playthrough. This strategy ensures that your audience can constantly learn and grow as they move through the game environment.
Incentives are another excellent way to keep players motivated and engaged as they progress through different game stages. For example, you can offer them rewards or unlockables for finishing certain levels or tasks. Allowing players to decide how to move within the game gives them a feeling of control over their gaming experience and encourages replayability. Gamers usually prefer the option to choose their paths in a game as it gives them a sense of customization.
Crafting a Narrative to Captivate Gamers
Having a narrative that players can buy into is another critical factor in crafting a successful online game. Players will quickly become bored, frustrated, or apathetic toward the game and its objectives without a story. Storytelling in gaming should be all about choice. Giving players a sense of autonomy and control helps them become more invested in the events unfolding on screen.
In line with that, game developers should construct an immersive world for their players, complete with believable characters and engaging plot points that drive the story forward. Building an atmosphere that feels alive and authentic will encourage greater engagement from players who want to learn about the universe you have created for them.
Understand the Mind of Online Gamers to Create Better Games
In a nutshell, understanding the psychology of online gamers can be highly beneficial for game developers. Learning their motivations, beliefs, and emotional reactions to craft games, which you can do through online short surveys. Following the guide above will help you craft more successful games and thrive in the increasingly competitive gaming industry.
