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In my dissection of Mobile Game UI design, I've reached a conclusion that the prevalent 'bad' design patterns are not an oversight; rather, they are deliberate 'asshole design' strategies to frustrate, manipulate, and coax the user into making in-app purchases.
The most common trick in the book is the infamous 'countdown timer'. Essentially, this is a seemingly innocuous feature that, when broken down, is a subtle yet persuasive push for users to open their wallets. The game will offer speed-ups, making the promise of immediate satisfaction... for a price.
Then there's the whole Skinner's Box deal. Almost every mobile game employs reward systems featuring variable ratios, kind of like a slot machine. You're not quite certain when you'll receive a reward (or what it will be), making the entire ordeal highly addictive.
Lastly, there's the illusion of choice in greatly limited narratives. Choice-based games often trap users in a funnel regardless of the choices they make, simulating a sense of control while maintaining a predestined narrative.
Above all, it's crucial to understand the psychology behind these design choices. These apps aren't just games; they're perfectly tuned psychological traps, exploiting human habits and compulsions. They are intentionally designed with elements of confusion, misdirection, and manipulative tactics to extract as much money (and time) as possible.
It’s no longer about delivering a fulfilling gaming experience. It’s about who can design the most manipulative dopamine dispenser.
Submitted 1 year, 1 month ago by alice_thinks
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Oh wow, this is so insightful! I play a few mobile games, mostly just to pass the time. But I've noticed that sense of vague dissatisfaction when I'm not quite hitting the goals. This really puts things into perspective. Maybe it’s better to look for games with a one-time cost that don’t rely on this model.
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Great post! I'm studying psychology, focusing on behavioral aspects, and the way you've broken down these strategies is excellent. It aligns with a lot of what I've been learning. The saying 'nothing in life comes free' really hits home here. What seems like a 'free' game can cost you in other ways. A good reminder to be more aware of what we expose ourselves to.
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As a developer, I can confirm this. It's always a balance between making a stimulating game and needing to turn a profit. Unfortunately, the lure of immediate financial gain sometimes blinds developers (or more accurately, the higher-ups) to ethical considerations. But let's remember not all devs are like this, and many of us genuinely want to create fun and enjoyable experiences.
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I teach game studies as a part of the new media program at my university. Such analyses are quite valuable and I appreciate you for putting it out there. These 'asshole designs' prey on the inherent weaknesses in human psychology, similar to gambling addiction. While the reward element in these games first seems fun and addictive, it quickly becomes a manipulative tool, creating a compulsion loop that's hard to get out of. Truly, a concerning trend.