Gaming Disorder and Microtransactions: Understanding the Cognitive Processes behind In-Game Purchases

Abstract

With the increasing reach and accessibility of modern video gaming, individuals have become more invested in gaming. In recent years, increased levels of global video game consumption has led to Internet Gaming Disorder (IGD) being included in international health classifications, such as the DSM-5 and ICD-11, and is defined as a behavioural addiction by the WHO. Over-engagement in gaming has been exacerbated by the emergence of new business models by gaming companies, particularly the ‘recurring revenue model’ that incentivises players to spend more money in games via options like downloadable content or microtransactions. Previous research has examined the associations between behaviours like FoMO (Fear of Missing Out) and impulsiveness, and their role in contributing to gaming disorder symptoms. However, little is known about the relationships between these predictive behaviours and how they may influence additional spending. This study examined the relationships between gaming disorder symptoms and in-game purchases. It also investigated whether traits such as FoMO, impulsivity, maximization and regret have any influence on additional purchases. The study involved 377 gamers recruited from an online platform who were asked to complete measures of problem gaming, personality and to describe their gaming expenditure. The results showed that there were modest relationships between IGD, platform choice and FoMO with additional purchases. Additional findings also showed that gender, impulsivity and regret were significantly linked to additional purchases. The results of the study provide preliminary evidence that influential behavioural traits associated with IGD symptoms are related to increased levels of in-game purchases.