Abstract
In this paper, we investigate ambivalences—simultaneous positive and negative evaluations of an object—triggered by paradoxes—contradictory yet interrelated elements that persist over time and appear logical in isolation but irrational and inconsistent when juxtaposed—in digital gaming and game de-sign. By analyzing qualitative data from 22 semi-structured interviews, 30 social media posts, and over 5,000 comments in these posts, we identify six core digital gaming ambivalences manifesting through individual (obligation/volition, distress induction/distress reduction, experiencing distress/eustress, and overplaying/underplaying) and collective (exclusion/inclusion and hostility/harmony) dimensions. We explain how the ambivalences are triggered by game design paradoxes, namely constant change versus status quo, shallow gameplay loop/monetization versus sustained player satisfaction, and catering to hardcore gamers versus casual gamers. We present a framework that explains the interrelatedness of the game design paradoxes and their role in triggering the digital gaming ambivalences. We provide insights for designing games and gamified information technologies to balance user well-being and benefits, emphasizing the importance of considering the paradoxical aspects of game design.
Recommended Citation
Hämäläinen, Antti; Salo, Markus; and Pirkkalainen, Henri, "Uncovering Individual and Collective Ambivalences in
Digital Gaming: The Triggering Role of Game Design Paradoxes" (2024). MCIS 2024 Proceedings. 6.
https://aisel.aisnet.org/mcis2024/6