Data-Centric Evaluation of Microtransactions: Analysing Their Effect on Player Persistence and Engagement in Online Gaming

Approved

Relevance and Originality

This study addresses a critical and timely issue in the gaming industry—the impact of microtransactions on player behavior. Microtransactions have become a dominant revenue model, making the exploration of their effects on player retention, engagement, and satisfaction highly relevant. The research’s originality lies in its comprehensive approach, integrating quantitative survey data with qualitative insights from interviews and online discussions to examine different microtransaction types. This approach offers a novel perspective on the balance between monetization and player experience.

Methodology

The study employs a mixed-methods approach, combining quantitative data from surveys and in-game metrics with qualitative insights from interviews and online discussions. This comprehensive methodology allows for a nuanced analysis of how different microtransaction types, such as cosmetic versus pay-to-win, impact player behavior. However, further details on the specific analytical techniques used and how they were applied to integrate the quantitative and qualitative data would enhance the understanding of the methodology's robustness.

Validity & Reliability

The study indicates a strong approach to validity and reliability by using both quantitative and qualitative data sources. The integration of survey data with in-game metrics and qualitative insights suggests a thorough examination of the effects of microtransactions. However, the abstract does not specify how the data’s validity was ensured or how potential biases were addressed. Detailed information on the reliability of the measures and the generalizability of the findings would strengthen the assessment of the study’s validity.

Clarity and Structure

The clarity of the study is generally strong, with a clear focus on the impact of microtransactions on player behavior. The structure appears logical, addressing different aspects such as retention, engagement, and fairness perceptions. However, more detailed explanations of how each type of microtransaction was analyzed and the specific findings related to each aspect would improve the overall clarity and provide a more complete picture of the study’s results.

Result Analysis

The result analysis shows that microtransactions can enhance player engagement through added content and customization but may negatively affect retention and satisfaction if perceived as unfair. This dual impact underscores the need for ethical monetization strategies. However, the abstract does not provide detailed results or metrics to support these conclusions. A more thorough analysis, including specific data points and examples, would offer deeper insights into how microtransactions affect player experiences and satisfaction.