Similarities between Video Games and Slot Machines

Have you noticed similarities between slot machines and video games? More and more, game developers are using the same tactics that gambling companies use to keep people returning to the game. If you are struggling to quit video games, you may be getting hooked by these psychological tricks.

LOSS AVERSION

You receive something free (a weapon or extra lives, for example); then you’re asked to pay to keep it. This is similar to chasing losses in gambling, which is when someone returns to gamble more money to make up for previous losses. In both cases, the games capitalize on a cognitive bias–the psychological pain of losing something is twice as intense as the psychological pleasure of winning something. The human brain works hard to avoid loss.

HOT STATES

You’ve just lost, you’re feeling frustrated, and you’re more likely to be impulsive. You’re in a “hot state.” This is when you might see a countdown to buy something that will help you win next time. Slot machines use a similar tactic by highlighting “near misses” to convince you that a win will come soon.

AVAILABILITY

You see that someone has opened a rare item or hit the jackpot, so you believe there’s a good chance that you can, too. Knowing about someone else’s success can make very small odds seem bigger.

VIP SCHEMES

You’ve won a lot of money, so you’re assigned a VIP manager who will check in on you if you start spending less money than usual.