The Psychology of Addiction to PUBG: Why Do We Keep Playing?

PlayerUnknown's Battlegrounds, popularly known as PUBG, has taken the gaming world by storm. Since its release in March 2017, the battle royale game has amassed over 600 million downloads worldwide. With its fast-paced action, immersive gameplay, and rewarding mechanics, it's no surprise that PUBG has captured the hearts and minds of gamers across the globe. But why do we keep playing PUBG? What is it about this game that makes it so addictive? In this article, we'll explore the psychology of addiction to PUBG and try to answer these questions.

The Rewards of Progression

One of the key factors that keep players coming back to PUBG is the reward system built into the game. As players progress through the ranks and earn rewards, they experience a sense of accomplishment and satisfaction that keeps them engaged. PUBG's ranking system is based on experience points (XP), which players earn by performing various actions such as killing other players, looting, and surviving for longer periods. As players accumulate XP, they level up, unlocking new items, skins, and emotes. The dopamine rush that comes with each new reward is what makes the game so addicting.

The Social Aspect of Gaming

Another reason why players keep coming back to PUBG is the social aspect of gaming. PUBG is a multiplayer game, which means players can team up with friends or join random players from around the world to compete against other teams. The social interaction that takes place during gameplay provides players with a sense of belonging and purpose. According to a study by Newzoo, a gaming research firm, 51% of gamers say that playing games with others is their primary reason for playing.

The Adrenaline Rush

PUBG is an intense game that keeps players on the edge of their seats. The constant threat of danger and the need to make split-second decisions create an adrenaline rush that is hard to replicate in other forms of entertainment. This rush is what keeps players coming back for more. According to a survey conducted by GameQuitters, a support community for gaming addiction, 71% of gamers report feeling an adrenaline rush while playing games.

The Element of Chance

PUBG is a game that relies heavily on chance. Players never know what loot they will find or where they will land on the map. The frustration often results in people trying to find hacks on sites like main.skymall7.com. This element of unpredictability makes the game more exciting and keeps players engaged. The randomness of the game also means that no two games are the same, providing a unique experience with every play. According to a study by Ipsos, a global market research firm, 38% of gamers say that unpredictability is the main reason they keep playing games.

The Fear of Missing Out (FOMO)

Finally, the fear of missing out (FOMO) is a powerful motivator that keeps players engaged in PUBG. The game is constantly updating with new maps, game modes, and items. Players who take a break from the game risk missing out on new content, rewards, and experiences. This fear of missing out drives players to keep playing, even when they may not want to. According to a survey by LendEDU, a marketplace for financial products, 60% of gamers say that FOMO is the main reason they keep playing games.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the psychology of addiction to PUBG is a complex topic that involves multiple factors. The reward system built into the game, the social interaction, the adrenaline rush, the element of chance, and the fear of missing out are all factors that keep players coming back for more. While gaming addiction can have negative consequences, such as reduced productivity and social isolation, it's important to recognize the positive aspects of gaming as well.