“It’s a terrible choice to make but also a necessary one”: Exploring player experiences with moral decision making mechanics in video games

Abstract

Video games offer a unique platform for players to engage interactively with morally challenging topics and dilemmas. Despite the growing popularity of games that offer such content, there is a paucity of research on the player experiences and the specific game mechanics that facilitate moral decision making. To address this gap, this research identifies key game mechanics that support moral decision making through a comprehensive review of related literature and qualitative survey responses from players (n = 30). The effects of these mechanics on players’ decision making processes and their overall impact on player experience were further explored through semi-structured, video-elicitation interviews (n = 11). This research develops a theoretical framework based on the findings from these two exploratory studies, culminating in a set of design guidelines to inform the future development of moral decision making games. • This research highlights key game mechanics that facilitate moral decision making and their impact on player experience. • Surveys and interviews with 39 players explored decision-making factors and experiences in morally challenging games. • Context and personal values shape how game mechanics enhance or hinder immersion, decision-making, agency, and reflection. • Our paper provides guidelines based on these findings on using game mechanics to enhance player experiences. • New framework links players’ values, game mechanics and context to decisions and experiences, contributing to games research.