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Videogames are played by millions of individuals all over the world and are types of entertainment digital media which have rules that are independent from the real world (Garris, Ahlers, & Driskell, 2002). With advancements in digital technology, videogames are now more realistic in sound, graphics, and storytelling, and have become increasingly better in simulating reality. Videogames can now be distributed and played online via personal computers, mobile devices (such as tablets and smartphones), and dedicated game consoles. One of the most well-known examples of this is the evolution of multi-user dungeon (MUD) games to massively multiplayer online (MMO) games. Although they are similar in gameplay, the main difference between these types of games are that MMOs can support more online players with better graphical interfaces and virtual worlds (Encyclopedia of Science Fiction, 2018).
MMOs are games in which millions of players can assume one of several roles offered by the game simultaneously in virtual worlds. They are games played within a digital environment comprising 2D or 3D virtual worlds where gamers play with others via their avatar (Steinkuehler and Williams, 2006; Yee, 2006b). There are also predefined boundaries and rules within MMOs (Williams, Ducheneaut et al., 2006). MMO games can be complex games that can require thousands of different decisions and making smart choices about character development (Nardi, Ly, & Harris, 2007). A typical MMO player can walk around a virtual world, go hunting, collect plants and mines, go fishing, carry out tasks, fight, beat their competitors, have a job, and/or increase their level to become stronger in the game either alone or with other players (Steinkuehler & Duncan, 2008). Furthermore, players can join several social groups with short-term objectives to more longstanding groups which can extend to real world and where continuous relationships be established (Cole & Griffiths, 2007; Williams, Ducheneaut et al., 2006). MMOs possess multiple types of motivations and actions that can be present in real life but may be realized more easily via gaming in virtual environments.
One of the most important components in gaming behavior is players’ motivations and their corresponding actions (Ghuman & Griffiths, 2012). Studies have shown that various types of action and motivations within games are important variables in predicting individuals’ levels of having fun while playing games (Bartle, 1996; Lazarro, 2004). Lazarro (2004) claimed there were four motivation types that unlock emotions. These are (i) hard fun (i.e., players having to overcome difficult obstacles to progress in the game in pursuit of winning), easy fun (i.e., players just enjoying the game even if they do not win), altered states (i.e., players engaging in the game because it makes them feel good psychologically and changes their mood for the better), and the people factor (i.e., players wanting to socially interact with others in the game).
Kim and Ross (2006) identified five different gaming motivation types, namely, fantasy, competition, entertainment, social interaction, and diversion in sport video game playing. Yee (2002) conducted research investigating gamers’ motivations for playing massively multiplayer online role-playing games (MMORPGs). His research suggested five motivation types; relationship, immersion, grief, achievement, and leadership. Another study by Yee (2006a) on gaming motivations MMORPGs reduced the number of main gaming motivation types for MMORPG players to three; social motivation, achievement motivation, and immersion. Achievement motivation included mechanics, advancement and competition. Social motivation included teamwork, relationships, and socializing. Immersion included escapism, customization, discovery and role-playing.