Category Series

What makes games engaging? Welcome to our deep-dive series exploring the hidden systems that keep players returning to games over time.

In order to uncover the hidden systems behind game engagement, we analysed a large Steam dataset containing a wide range of usage metrics.

To complement our Steam data analysis, we added a qualitative layer based on player comments and professional reviews, uncovering five principal systems of player engagement.

In the first of our deep-dive articles analysing game engagement systems, we explore those titles that invite players to perfect their tactics and sharpen their performance.

Secrets of Game Engagement 2: Generative Social Systems In the second of our deep-dive articles analysing game engagement systems, we explore those titles that offer players shared experiences and unique moments. Phasmophobia Stories Worth Dying For Left 4 Dead 2…

Secrets of Game Engagement 3. Creative Stewardship In the third of our deep-dive articles analysing game engagement systems, we explore games that sustain engagement by giving players the freedom to make the world their own. Going Medieval The Eternal Project…

Secrets of Game Engagement 4. Persistent Stakes In the fourth of our deep-dive articles analysing game engagement systems, we explore games that create engagement through continuity, where player actions shape future play. PlanetSide 2 War that Never Ends Terminator: Dark…

Secrets of Game Engagement 5. Fantasy Anchors In the fifth of our deep-dive articles analysing game engagement systems, we explore those titles that make the experience of being in the world rewarding in itself. Batman: Arkham City Becoming the Dark…

Secrets of Game Engagement Series Conclusion:What Keeps Players Playing? In the concluding article in our Secrets of Engagement series, we highlight the key findings and answer the question: what keeps players playing? Five Engagement Systems Layering Engagement Emotional States Games…