„In the end, it's not good for business.” Frostpunk 2 dev talks about using addictive techniques in games

Having extensive knowledge in the field of psychology can be extremely important when designing video games. Thanks to it, game developers can create highly engaging mechanisms because they understand how the human brain works.

While it's hard to criticize devs for making a game with an engaging story or gameplay, players aren't fans of situations where their commitment translates into spending money in the game.

In the past, similar accusations were made against Diablo Immortal, criticizing it for being addictive and pushing players to spend money. In 2023, an American family sued several game publishers, accusing them of intentionally using techniques that promote addiction. Of course, the companies firmly rejected these accusations. Now one of the devs of Frostpunk 2 has spoken on the subject.

It's unethical and bad for business

On Slitherine Games' channel on YouTube, a video dedicated to strategy games has been published. Among the invited guests were Slitherine CEO Iain McNeil and streamer 2DKiri, who specializes in this genre (and in indie games).

Jakub Stokalski from the 11 bit studios team was also invited. At some point, the conversation turned to the topic of the increased use of various aspects of psychology in games, in the context of Stokalski's doctorate in applied psychology.

Stokalski confirmed that there are methods of designing games in such a way as to cause addiction. In other words, he tries not to "use brain-stimulating techniques to make us constantly want to interact with the game," at least not directly when making project decisions.

Stokalski mentioned the so-called "dark patterns" - ways of designing a digital interface to manipulate the user. In his opinion, using such techniques is not only unethical, but also "bad for business."

The dev believes that having the appropriate infrastructure to use in the creative process is extremely important. However, it's also important how and why you use this knowledge.

In other words, it all comes down to the responsibility of the developers. Designing games based on addictive mechanisms can ensure quick profits, but it can also erode the trust of players, which is unlikely to have a positive impact on future business.

Frostpunk 2

September 20, 2024

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• addictions
• psychology
• 11 bit studios