Using Psychophysiological Insights to Evaluate the Impact of Loot Boxes on Arousal

TL;DR

This study uses psychophysiological measures to analyze player arousal during loot box interactions, revealing potential similarities to gambling and implications for gaming disorder and regulation.

Contribution

It introduces a novel experimental approach using EDA to assess arousal during loot box interactions and explores their relationship with Internet Gaming Disorder severity.

Findings

Loot box interactions increase arousal levels similar to gambling.

Higher IGD severity correlates with greater arousal during loot box engagement.

Provides evidence for potential risks of loot boxes in gaming environments.

Abstract

This study investigates the psychophysiological effects of loot box interactions in video games and their potential similarities to those recorded during gambling interactions. Using electrodermal activity (EDA) measurements, the research examines player arousal during loot box interactions and explores the relationship between Internet Gaming Disorder (IGD) severity and loot box interactions from a psychophysiological perspective. The study employs a custom-designed game to control experimental conditions and standardise loot box interactions. Participants' IGD severity is assessed using the Internet Gaming Disorder Scale - Short Form (IGDS9-SF), while arousal is measured through EDA, analysing both tonic and phasic components. The study contributes to the ongoing debate surrounding gaming disorder and loot boxes, offering insights for game developers and policymakers on the potential risks associated with random reward mechanisms in video games.