How Achievement Systems Shape Player Behaviour in Modern Games

Gamification is increasingly the core of everything we do. The achievement system is an integral part of game design, and specifically changes the way players interact with the game itself. Essentially, these achievement mechanics tickle the motivations that keep players playing, encouraging a new way of gaming.

How does it work?

At the core of it all, these achievements systems work on a form of positive reinforcement. When an achievement is unlocked, there's visual feedback in the form of points awarded. This means that players are more likely to perform the tasks or behaviours required to unlock more rewards. On top of that, there's something called the endowment effect. Essentially, when a player has invested a certain amount of time to get these achievements, they take pride in it and are more reluctant to abandon the game. Alongside this, the desire to complete something ways pretty heavily in the decision to keep gaming.

Depending on the game, these can be different. For a video game, it means completing additional side quests that previously might have been ignored. For casino games it may mean playing an extra hand or spinning the wheel one more time to reach a milestone. Players can also be encouraged to continue playing through bonuses awarded because of the achievements. Some of the best casino bonus offers revolve around this concept, providing an additional reward or incentive to keep playing.

Types of achievements

With achievement systems now so popular, it's not surprising that game design is fully embracing them. And, there are new variations and potential further trends to consider as well. Some games and casinos offer time-limited achievements which create a fear of missing out. Games like Fortnite often do this, encouraging players to get playing or even make in-game purchases. Another format is tiered progression. This also mixes monetization aspects with achievements. This type of system can include battle passes for games, or simply be part of the in-game mechanic to get players to achieve certain goals in order to unlock new areas of the game. Hidden achievements are popular, and help bring a surprise element to the game as players discover them unexpectedly. With the increased use of AI in algorithms, there's also adaptive achievement systems which adjust to the player's skill level. This promotes a more pleasant game experience, reducing the complexity of the game when needed or when it becomes obvious that the player is struggling.

Player types in gaming

There are different player types when it comes to playing games. And the important thing about achievement systems is that it appeals to all of them. Completionists are one type and these often mean that players of this type have changed from entertainment to an obligation-style play. Some will even play games past being fun simply because the drive to complete is high. Collectors play with the goal of getting trophies such as Steam completion percentages. These metrics are often seen as a status symbol within the community. Casual players may typically be uninterested in achievement systems, but are usually drawn in eventually. Rewards keep casual players engaged longer than the more general game might have.

Potential downsides

Unfortunately, it's not all great when it comes to this type of gaming system. Achievement systems are specifically designed to encourage players to return and keep playing. As mentioned, they are linked to casino rewards too. Coupled with the fact that most players do not know when the next achievement will unlock, the mechanism becomes particularly powerful. In fact, it is a form of manipulation which can lead to gaming addiction as players strive to seek the highs of achievement with increasingly large gaps between levels. Additionally, it has been reported that players can develop anxiety surrounding achievements and what they've missed or failed to earn during the game. Constantly checking to see what achievements are possible reduces the fun of gameplay. And players are also likely to become burned out or overly fatigued due to lengthy game times as they chase the rush of getting an achievement.

With all this in mind, it's no surprise to see that achievement systems have really changed gaming behaviour. Used in the right away, these are great tools to encourage good habits such as their incorporation into dieting or fitness apps, but in the gaming world, it can have more severe outcomes. Compulsive behaviours and addiction are promoted over player enjoyment. The future should balance rewards, player motivation and enjoyment more cohesively to ensure players are playing for fun and not just for points.