Let's look at World of Warcraft's transformation from a subscription game into a digital retail empire built on subtle dark patterns. We will analyse how the WoW Token, character boosts, and FOMO-driven cosmetics manipulate player psychology and create a pay-to-win environment that devalues the core player experience.
Read MoreLet's look at the dark patterns embedded within the free-to-play model of League of Legends. We will analyse how its cosmetic-driven economy, manufactured meta instability, and use of manipulative psychological techniques are ethically questionable at best, for the real-world harm they cause players.
Read MoreLet's talk about how the seemingly wholesome game Pokémon GO uses manipulative dark patterns disguised as health benefits and social connection. We'll deconstruct its pay-to-win structure, monetisation strategies, and the psychological hooks like FOMO and the sunk-cost fallacy that create an addictive and profitable experience.
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