Q and A with the experts: How games trick you into playing – and paying
Q and A with the experts: How games trick you into playing – and paying
Q and A with the experts: How games trick you into playing – and paying
Summary
Deceptive game design uses tactics like hidden real-world costs, loot boxes, and default payment settings to manipulate players—often leading to unplanned spending and addictive behaviors. Hilda Hadan, a Ph.D. candidate in Systems Design Engineering at the University of Waterloo, explains how in-game currencies, FOMO, and privacy risks affect users. These designs can cause financial strain, anxiety, and encourage sharing personal data. To avoid harm, players should monitor spending, read reviews, and protect their data. Parents can help by setting budgets, using parental controls, limiting screen time, and having open conversations about gaming habits and privacy, creating a safe space for reflection.
Reference
University of Waterloo. (n.d.). Q and A with the experts: How games trick you into playing – and paying. https://uwaterloo.ca/news/media/q-and-experts-how-games-trick-you-playing-and-paying