What are the psychological mechanisms behind the popularity of today's fast online games? We see this genre attracting more and more people, especially among the younger generation. Perhaps this is due to the fact that such games offer instant gratification or strong emotions associated with excitement and achieving goals?
I read an article on https://thisgengaming.com/2024/12/19/modern-fast-paced-online-gaming-hidden-psychology/ not too long ago that delves deeply into this topic. The article states that one of the key reasons for the popularity of fast online games is their ability to activate the reward system in the brain. They offer players instant feedback - whether it's a win, a reward, or even a simple visual confirmation of progress. This triggers the release of dopamine, which stimulates feelings of satisfaction. The competitive component is also important. These games create an intense sense of excitement and engagement, allowing players to feel part of a larger community. In addition, they often utilize vivid visuals, soundtracks, and simple but dynamic mechanics that hold attention and make gameplay engaging. The article mentions that these mechanics not only make games popular, but also create a certain addiction as players seek to relive these experiences over and over again
I think fast online games are attractive due to their simplicity and accessibility. A player can easily get into the game, feel the progress and get results in a short time. This is perfect for those who want a quick distraction or time out. Perhaps the point here is the combination of the emotions that games provide and their adaptability to the modern pace of life.
