Paradoks gracza, czyli co motywuje graczy do korzystania z gier online

The article presents the psychological evolution of online players’ motivation: from conscious fun to the ‘production’ of game achievements, which is automated, dominated by a goal and lacks the player’s involvement. Players’ paradoxical behaviour and the game features leading to such behaviour are discussed. This paradox is analyzed in the light of taxonomic research and psychological motivation theories explaining player activity. The role of the overjustification effect (intrinsic vs. extrinsic motivation) and psychological entrapment is discussed in detail. Game features fostering paradoxical behaviour are also indicated: (1) treating playing instrumentally, (2) compulsion to engage in certain activities, (3) reinforcing egoistic and stereotypical behaviour. Additionally, reward distribution which supports intrinsic motivation is proposed.