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Exploitative Patternsin Games

Variable-ratio reinforcement

Also: variable ratio schedule

Rewarding on an unpredictable schedule — the most persistent form of behavioural reinforcement.

Variable-ratio schedules deliver rewards after an unpredictable number of actions, producing high, persistent response rates — the same mechanism that makes slot machines compelling. Combined with near-miss framing, it is the engine behind randomised-reward harm.

See also

References

  1. Drummond, A.; Sauer, J. D. (2018). Video game loot boxes are psychologically akin to gambling. Nature Human Behaviour. doi.org/10.1038/s41562-018-0360-1 · citing patterns
  2. King, D. L.; Delfabbro, P. H. (2018). Predatory monetization schemes in video games (e.g. 'loot boxes') and internet gaming disorder. Addiction. doi.org/10.1111/add.14286 · citing patterns