EA Sports FC 24 was one of the most awaited games of 2023, and since its release on September 29th, it’s been praised for its exciting gameplay and stunning graphics. But behind the fun lies a darker side to its design.
From clever marketing to in-game purchases and social features, the developers of EA Sports FC 24 use a range of strategies to keep players hooked and spending money on their Ultimate Team mode. Let’s dive into how this game might be manipulating its players and what this means for their behavior and well-being.
1. The Power of Branding
The term “brainwashing” may be a bit strong, but the techniques employed by EA Sports FC’s developers do share some similarities with the tactics used in brainwashing. By building trust and creating excitement, the game taps into the same psychological tricks used by particular groups to keep followers engaged.
For instance, the game creates anticipation and excitement, triggering dopamine release in the brain. This makes players more likely to engage with Ultimate Team and spend money on it. The developers might not have bad intentions, but players should be aware of these tactics and make informed choices about their time and money.
2. The Double-Edged Sword of In-Game Purchases
In-game purchases in EA Sports FC 24 can add excitement and variety, but they also come with risks. These purchases can lead to financial trouble, gambling-like behavior, and addiction.
The anticipation of in-game rewards can trigger dopamine release, making players crave more rewards and spend more time and money than intended. Randomized rewards create uncertainty, which increases engagement but also addiction risks. Players need to balance enjoying the game with being aware of these risks.
3. Social Features and Peer Pressure
Social features like leaderboards and multiplayer modes in EA Sports FC 24 can create a sense of community and competition. However, they also lead to peer pressure and a fear of missing out (FoMO).
Seeing others’ progress can make players feel they need to keep up, resulting in more time and money spent on the game. The game might also promote certain behaviors through notifications, influencing players without them realizing it. These social features, while fun, can pressure players in ways similar to brainwashing.
4. Game Design Tricks
EA Sports FC 24 uses variable rewards, near-win effects, and progression systems to keep players engaged. While these elements make the game exciting, they can also lead to addiction and harm if players don’t set healthy boundaries.
Players should be mindful of how these design choices can influence their behaviour and consider ways to maintain a healthy balance between enjoying the game and prioritizing other important aspects of their lives.
5. The Ethical Implications of Psychological Manipulation in Gaming
The use of psychological tactics in games like FC 24 raises ethical questions about the responsibilities of game developers. While these tactics drive engagement and revenue, they can also exploit players and encourage addictive behaviors.
Game developers should consider their responsibility to protect players from harm. This might include safeguards to prevent excessive spending, resources for those struggling with addiction, or more transparency about the psychological tactics used in the game.
The increasing use of these tactics could change how games are designed, with a focus on revenue through microtransactions. This shift could impact both players and developers, with long-term consequences for the gaming industry.
While EA Sports FC 24 offers an engaging experience, players should be aware of the psychological effects of its design and marketing. By understanding the risks of peer pressure, addiction, and financial trouble, players can enjoy the game while maintaining control.
Games are meant to be fun, not harmful. By staying informed and mindful, gamers can enjoy EA FC 24 responsibly without falling for manipulative tactics.
