eSports Players Research Articles

Sounds and Natures Do Often Agree: Prediction of Esports Players’ Performance in Fighting Games Based on the Operating Sounds of Game Controllers

In research focusing on esports, studies have been conducted on designs that attract competitors, performance estimation, training methods, and motivational factors. However, quantitative and convenient methods for performance evaluation are still in the development stage among the numerous performance evaluation methods. In particular, few method has been developed to objectively measure an individual’s mental state utilizing limited equipment. It has been observed that when players’ performance deteriorates or they are under pressure, they occasionally operate the controller in accordance with their state, resulting in the sound of the controller increasing. Therefore, this study aimed to clarify the relationship between the sound of esports players’ controller operations and their objective as well as subjective metrics, including their emotional state and performance during the game. Initially, the controller sounds of players of various ranks in Super Smash Bros. Ultimate (SSBU) by Nintendo were explored, aiming to elucidate the connection between the operation sounds of adept and intermediate esports competitors and their day-to-day fluctuations in game performance and emotional well-being. The findings revealed a discernible pattern: the more proficient the player, the more resonant the sounds emanating from their controller during gameplay. Furthermore, the operational sounds of skilled players exhibited an escalation when their performance faltered.

Gamers’ gratifications and continuous intention to play eSports: the mediating role of gamers’ satisfaction-a PLS-SEM and NCA study

PurposeThis study aims to investigate the relationship between different hedonic (e.g. enjoyment and escapism) and utilitarian (e.g. achievement and challenge) gratifications and continuous intention to play eSports, considering the mediating role of gamer’s satisfaction. Uses and Gratification theory (U&G) has been employed as the study’s theoretical framework.Design/methodology/approachThe present study used a survey research method and a self-administered questionnaire to collect the data. The data was gathered on-site from students of three universities in Pakistan’s Islamabad and Rawalpindi regions. Study respondents involved people from Gen Z and Gen Y aged between 18 to 25 and 26 to 40. A total of 401 responses were evaluated using the partial least squares structural equation modeling (PLS-SEM) and necessary condition analysis (NCA).FindingsThe PLS-SEM findings evidence that eSports players’ hedonic (e.g. enjoyment and escapism) and utilitarian (e.g. challenge) gratification positively impact gamers’ satisfaction, which subsequently drives eSports gamers’ continuance intention behavior. Furthermore, gamers’ satisfaction positively mediated the relationship between gratifications (e.g. enjoyment and escapism refer to hedonic, whereas achievement and challenge represent utilitarian) and continuance intentions. NCA on eSports gamers’ satisfaction and continuance intention identified critical predictive factors. The analysis revealed that only enjoyment is necessary for predicting satisfaction. Interestingly, NCA results also indicated that enjoyment, achievement, escapism, challenge and satisfaction are all necessary for predicting eSports gamers’ continuance intention.Originality/valueThis study investigates the mediating role of eSports gamers’ satisfaction between gamers’ perceived gratifications (i.e. enjoyment, escapism, achievement, challenge) and their continuous intention to play in the Pakistani context. More importantly, we employ a multi-method approach (e.g. a combined approach of PLS-SEM with NCA) to determine the sufficient and necessary conditions of the outcome variable comprising satisfaction and continuous intention.

Cognition, Lifestyle, and Gender: An Umbrella Review of Esport Performance, Participation, and Well-Being

Background: The recent exponential rise in esports participation has stimulated growing interest in the performance, participation, and well-being of esports players. This research has culminated in several systematic reviews that provide an initial biopsychosocial perspective of esports players. The aim of our umbrella review was to synthesize and quality appraise these systematic reviews to provide a coherent understanding of the biopsychosocial factors affecting esports players’ performance and well-being. Methods: An umbrella review was conducted on literature published from 2010 onward from six online databases to identify and examine systematic reviews within esports literature related to mental health and performance. A MeaSurement Tool to Assess Systematic Reviews-2 was used to critically appraise systematic reviews. Results: Fourteen systematic reviews were identified examining player performance (n = 5), player mental health (n = 4), and a combination of both factors (n = 5). Four key themes were identified on esports player lifestyle, cognition, physical health, and gender-based concerns. Twelve of the 14 systematic reviews were rated low or critically low quality. Discussion: The results highlight the biopsychosocial factors related to esports participation showing a positive impact on cognitive functioning, a mixed-to-negative impact on sleep outcomes and physical activity, and discrimination toward female players. The low-quality reviews show a need for more rigorous methodology in esports research.

Duty of Care in Esports: Ensuring Mental Well-Being and Physical Health of Esports Players

This paper examines the perspectives of esports players on organizational support to ensure and enhance their mental well-being and physical health throughout their esports careers. Drawing insights from one of the most substantial data sets in the field, a total of 33 participants were recruited for this study, including professional (n = 21), semiprofessional (n = 6), amateur (n = 4), and retired players (n = 2). Data were collected via semistructured interviews, allowing for in-depth exploration of participants’ responses. Thematic analysis was then conducted, identifying three key themes: (a) limited organizational support available, (b) demand for psychological and mental support, and (c) importance of maintaining fitness and addressing physical health issues. The results indicate that organizational support was limited, highlighting a critical need for further attention from stakeholders. The findings emphasize the importance of providing comprehensive support to enhance esports players’ performance and overall well-being. This includes a strong focus on promoting mental well-being and physical health, which are crucial for sustaining long-term success and health in the competitive esports environment. Hence, the key stakeholders in the esports industry should take action to establish effective support systems that prioritize players’ physical health and mental well-being, drawing on this empirical evidence. The findings indicate a potential need for culturally sensitive interventions to address the unique psychological needs of esports players from diverse backgrounds. Furthermore, by implementing such interventions, the esports industry can foster a more supportive and effective environment for its players.

Understanding esports player preferences: which self-definitional needs drive their satisfaction?

PurposeEsports is emerging as a global sensation, yet its distinctive nature complicates our understanding of players' motivations. This study leverages self-hierarchy and self-determination theories to examine the motivations that define players at individual, relational, and community levels, seeking to identify which motivations are most valued.Design/methodology/approachA mixed-method approach was employed, focusing on Honor of Kings esports players in China to explore the answers to the research questions. First, semi-structured interviews were conducted to uncover self-definitional motivations at various levels. Second, a quantitative study was conducted with 607 regular Honor of Kings players to empirically examine the effects of the identified motivations on satisfaction.FindingsThe qualitative and quantitative data results reveal that self-efficacy and self-worth at the individual level, recognition and emotional attachment from close others at the relational-self level, and cocreation and belongingness at the collective level positively influence game satisfaction. More importantly, self-definitional motivations at the relational level are valued the most. Additionally, identification with a game character moderates the effects of self-definitional motivation at the collective level and emotional attachment at the relational-self level.Originality/valueThis research delves into players' motivations for engaging with Honor of Kings, anchored in self-hierarchy and self-determination theories. It uncovers that motivations rooted in different aspects of self-identity have distinct associations with players’ satisfaction level. This suggests a vital strategy for game designers and operators to adopt: to enhance player satisfaction, they should specifically address and emphasize the aspects of self-identity that matter most to their audience.

Navigating the ‘wild west’: governance challenges and solutions in (un)healthy esports sponsorship

ABSTRACT Esports sponsorship lacks an overarching governance framework, particularly regarding the involvement of unhealthy brands. Building on previous literature on sport governance, this study aims to identify the governance challenges presented by unhealthy brands in esports sponsorship and explore how esports sponsorship might best be governed. Drawing on semi-structured interviews with UK-based esports players (n = 11) and fans (n = 10), this study offers original insights into esports sponsorship governance, revealing a thin and ‘wild west’ governance landscape, characterised by a vulnerable financial structure, imbalanced power nexus and a lack of stakeholder representation. Findings highlight that despite concerns about the involvement of unhealthy brands, key stakeholders such as players and fans feel somewhat powerless to influence sponsorship decision-making due to the overreliance of esports on sponsorship revenue. In response, an integrated governance model comprising a multistakeholder approach and individual responsibilisation is proposed to address the challenges. Within such a model, individuals have responsibility for their own consumption choices, but this should be supported by education around healthy consumption of sponsor products and services. Another key feature of this proposed governance model is the representation of all key stakeholders within the sponsorship decision-making process. Consequently, policy makers are recommended to not bluntly remove or ban certain esports sponsorships but learn to trust and empower individuals to make responsible decisions, alongside introducing education initiatives to ensure that sufficient knowledge is provided for informed and guided choices.

Technologies of the self(-deception): Confidence, optimism and effort of Chinese esports players

Researchers have begun to focus on the esports player community and suggest that governments and industries take external means to address the difficulties of players. In contrast, this study investigated the subjectivity of professional players and technologies of the self in neoliberal esports. Based on 30 in-depth interviews with active and retired Chinese esports players, we found that esports players typically employ three self-technologies when facing challenges, namely practices of (fluctuating) confidence, (cruel) optimism and (limited) effort. These technologies construct players’ autonomy and legitimacy but can result in self-deception. We suggest that the self-technologies of esports players and the remote governance of China’s sports sector are two different perspectives on the same situation. Finally, we argue that exploring China’s esports industry can also promote understanding of the nature of Chinese neoliberalism.

Screen Time on Multiplayer Online Battle Arena (MOBA) as Mediator Between Trash-Talking and Aggressive Behavior of Esports Players

While extensive research has examined the relationship between gaming and aggression, few studies have focused on the factors that mediate the connection between trash-talking behavior and aggressive outcomes in multiplayer online battle arena (MOBA) games. This study addresses this gap by investigating the role of screen time as a mediator between trash-talking and aggressive behaviors in young players of Mobile Legends: Bang Bang (MLBB). Unlike previous research that primarily explored direct links between gaming and aggression, this study introduces screen time as a novel variable that influences this relationship. The study sampled 390 gamers aged 10 to 24 years, all enrolled at Southern Luzon State University in Lucban, Quezon, Philippines. Key variables, including verbal aggression, hostility, and anger, were assessed using standardized questionnaires, along with measures of trash-talking attitudes and screen time. Using mediation analysis, the study identified screen time as a key factor that explains the relationship between trash-talking and aggression. The findings revealed that trash-talking indirectly contributes to aggressive behavior through prolonged gaming exposure. In other words, the negative effects of trash-talking on aggression are amplified by increased screen time. This discovery offers a fresh perspective by highlighting screen time as a critical channel through which trash-talking influences aggression. The results underscore the importance of addressing both toxic communication and excessive screen time to foster a healthier and more sustainable gaming environment. As mobile gaming continues to dominate youth leisure activities, these findings provide actionable insights for developing interventions that reduce aggression and encourage positive competition in esports

Performance and physical activity. How playful activities implemented into training in Danish esports clubs influence players' performance experience.

Over the past few years, attention has focused on how physical activity can enhance esports players' performance. For example, complementing esports training with physical activities has been explored. However, most of these activities are based on traditional strength or endurance-related exercises, which do not align with the interests of children attending organized esports clubs. In this study, we investigate playful physical activities. Our research is based on qualitative pilot studies, where we observed and interviewed players (N = 77) and coaches (N = 12) from nine organized esports clubs for two to four months per club. We explored their experiences with playful physical activities implemented during esports training. Using a reflexive thematic analytical approach, we revisited and analyzed the data. The results are presented in this paper as three nonfictional short stories, creatively describing the lived experiences of the players and coaches. We emphasize patterns of shared meaning and identify the "What's" and "How's" associated with esports training when playful physical activities are incorporated. Despite differences in form, duration, and intensity compared to activities referenced in the literature on esports and performance, our results demonstrate that playful activities positively influence esports players' skills and performance. Furthermore, our findings suggest that playful physical activities, as opposed to traditional strength and endurance exercises, often associated with physical activity, are acceptable for esports coaches. However, for maximum impact, these activities must be relevant and directly related to the games played in the esports clubs. Based on our research, we recommend implementing playful physical activities that align with the actual esports training to support developing and optimizing players' esports skills and performance.

The Effect of Total Sleep Deprivation on the Cognitive and In-Game Performance of Rocket League Esport Players.

It is presumed by many that acute sleep loss results in degraded in-game esports (competitive, organized video game play) performance. However, this has not been experimentally investigated to date. The objective of the current experiment was to elucidate whether ~29hrs of total sleep deprivation impacts in-game performance for the popular esport Rocket League. Twenty skill-matched pairs (N = 40 total) were recruited. Within each pair, one participant was assigned to an intervention group (TSD), while the other was assigned to a control group (CON). Two test sessions occurred; one while both participants were rested (baseline), and the other while the CON participant was rested but the TSD participant was sleep deprived (experimental). Following total sleep deprivation, TSD participants reported higher Karolinska Sleepiness Scale-measured subjective sleepiness and lower subjective alertness and motivation, as well as worsened PVT response speed and ~5 times greater PVT lapse incidence, and worsened response speed on a two-choice categorization task. However, overall in-game Rocket League performance did not worsen due to total sleep deprivation. Exploratory analyses of performance indicators suggest a potential shift toward a simpler and safer strategy following sleep deprivation. Following a bout of ~29hrs total sleep deprivation, overall in-game Rocket League performance remained unaffected. This presents as a promising finding given the high potential for acute pre-competition sleep disturbance in esports, though habitual sleep remains a concern for esport athletes.

E스포츠 플레이어의 참여동기, 게임몰입 및 스트레스 관련 성장의 관계 분석

This study aimed to explore the structural relationship between participation motivation, game immersion, and stress-related growth among eSports players, with the goal of proposing strategies to improve the psychological factors of these players. The research was conducted in February 2024, targeting eSports players, and data were collected using a survey method, resulting in a total of 330 valid responses. The data were analyzed using SPSS and AMOS programs, employing confirmatory factor analysis, correlation analysis, and structural equation modeling. The key findings are as follows: First, participation motivation had a significant positive effect on game immersion (p<.001). Second, game immersion had a significant positive effect on stress-related growth (p<.05). Third, participation motivation did not have a significant effect on stress-related growth. These results suggest that immersion plays a crucial role in the gameplay experience of eSports players. This study is significant as it confirms the potential positive psychological impact of eSports and games.

Effects of the spectator's emotional attachment to esports players on the sponsoring brand

PropósitoEl objetivo de este estudio es comprender cómo el apego emocional del espectador hacia el jugador de esports es determinante para los resultados de la marca patrocinadora. Para ello se propone un modelo teórico basado en la literatura sobre el apego, la influencia social, y las comunidades de marca.Diseño/metodología/enfoqueSe recopilaron datos de una muestra de 1.355 espectadores habituales de esports mediante una encuesta online. El modelo conceptual propuesto se evaluó con la técnica de ecuaciones estructurales por el método de mínimos cuadrados parciales (PLS-SEM).HallazgosLos resultados muestran que el apego emocional hacia el jugador de esports ejerce un gran efecto tanto en el compromiso del espectador con la comunidad como en su intención de permanecer más tiempo visionando sus contenidos. Estas dos variables son clave para explicar la intención del espectador de realizar comportamientos positivos hacia la marca patrocinadora como son la recomendación, la intención de compra y la cocreación.OriginalidadEste estudio contribuye a mejorar la comprensión sobre los efectos del vínculo emocional del espectador con los jugadores de esports y su impacto en el desarrollo de comportamientos positivos hacia la marca patrocinadora.

Comparative analysis of visual and cognitive performance in esports athletes and soccer players

ABSTRACT Clinical relevance Assessing visual and cognitive performance in athletes is important for optimising training strategies and preventing visual strain in both esports and traditional sports. Background This study compared visual acuity, refractive error, binocular functions, and cognitive perception measures between esports and soccer players to optimise visual performance strategies. Methods Twenty-eight male esports athletes and 38 male soccer players were assessed. Visual acuity was measured using an ETDRS chart, and refractive error was assessed with retinoscopy. Phoria was evaluated with the Modified Thorington Technique at distance and near. Fusional vergence ranges and vergence facility were measured using prism bars and a prism flipper. Monocular accommodative facility at near was tested with ± 2.00D flipper lenses. Stereopsis was assessed using the Randot Stereo Test. Perception span, multiple object tracking, and visual reaction time, were evaluated using the Senaptec Sensory Station. Results Soccer players had significantly better visual acuity than esports athletes. For the right eye, the soccer group had an average decimal visual acuity of 1.1 ± 0.2 compared to 0.9 ± 0.1 in the esports group (p < 0.001). Refractive error analysis showed that esports athletes had more myopia (M =-0.67 ± 1.70D) and higher astigmatism (J0 = 0.47 ± 0.53D) than soccer players (M = 0.6 ± 1.06D, J0 = 0.09 ± 0.43D; p < 0.001). Soccer players demonstrated better negative fusional vergence at distance (p = 0.049) and superior near-accommodative facility (12.4 ± 4.2 cpm vs. 9.4 ± 5.2 cpm; p = 0.025). Soccer players also outperformed esports athletes in multiple object tracking (1811.3 ± 391.3 vs. 1523.4 ± 528.7; p = 0.013). No significant differences were observed in stereopsis or other binocular vision parameters. Conclusion Soccer players showed superior visual acuity and performance in tasks such as negative fusional vergence and near-accommodative facility compared to esports players. Esports athletes had more myopia and astigmatism, indicating a need for targeted visual interventions.

Unveiling factors and contingencies influencing exhaustion in professional esports players: evidence from China

PurposeThe rapid growth of professional esports has highlighted the lack of a universally recognised governing body to standardise operations and competition rules. This absence presents many challenges. A key concern is the well-being of professional esports players (e-pro-players), who often suffer from exhaustion. This study aims to examine the factors contributing to exhaustion among e-pro-players.Design/methodology/approachUsing the conservation of resources theory, we developed a framework to explain the factors leading to e-pro-players’ exhaustion and the conditions under which it occurs. We tested this framework with 126 responses in a dyadic survey from e-pro-players and their coaches in China. Additionally, we gathered qualitative insights from 50 interviews with esports stakeholders to provide more context for our quantitative findings.FindingsOur study found that e-pro-players’ intrinsic motivation to engage in training reduces their exhaustion, while their struggle to cope with uncertainty in esports environments (intolerance of uncertainty) increases it. The effect of intrinsic motivation is weaker for those who believe their talent for playing esports is fixed (entity belief) but stronger for those with high relational identification with their coaches. Additionally, the link between uncertainty intolerance and exhaustion is stronger in players with strong entity beliefs.Originality/valueOur study sheds light on the factors contributing to e-pro-players’ exhaustion within the partially regulated professional esports environment, a phenomenon that significantly influences their overall well-being. Through the identification and examination of these factors and the conditions under which they affect exhaustion, we deepen the understanding of the drivers of exhaustion for e-pro-players who operate in an industry lacking standardised regulations.

From gamers to players: Chinese Generation Z's perspectives on minors dropping out of school to become professional esports players

The research selected responses from Generation Z users on a Chinese question-and-answer website Zhihu, regarding the question ‘My younger brother wants to quit high school to pursue a career as an esports player, should I support him?’ as the primary research data. Utilizing the Social Cognitive Career Theory, the study delved into Generation Z's perspectives on abandoning academic pursuits to become professional esports players, from the aspects of self-efficacy, outcome expectations, and personal goals as a reflection of Generation Z's career outlook. Generation Z generally finds esports players extremely attractive, but fierce competition, uncertainty about career prospects, and pressure from societal perceptions and family expectations form a challenging career choice. Most Generation Z believe minors should remain rational, but a few Generation Z still think it's okay to give it a try. The study found that Generation Z's view of careers is a combination of romanticism and pragmatism; they cannot completely escape from considerations of career stability and social expectations, but they also value the pursuit of personal interests and the fulfilment of their passions. This duality reflects the inherent contradictions and struggles of Generation Z when confronted with traditional career concepts and modern values. This contradiction is particularly prominent in an emerging and uncertain field such as esports. This study provides profound insights into the underlying motivations of Generation Z's career choices and offers valuable implications for the evolution of societal norms and reforms in employment systems in the future.

Stress in Esports: A Qualitative Study on The Interplay of Player Experiences and Organizational Systems

Video games are designed for enjoyment and can benefit players, but in competitive settings such as esports they may lead to stress, a significant concern for players and coaches in competitive play due to potential negative psychological, social, and physical impacts. Since esports players are mostly adolescents and young adults, the vulnerability of their age underscores the need to investigate their stress experience. To this aim, we conducted semi-structured interviews with 16 First-Person Shooter (FPS) players and coaches (mean age 22.2) across A- to C-tiers. We examined players’ subjective stress experiences, team dynamics, and the broader esports organizational context. Findings reveal the players’ ability to recognize their stress signals and to make sense of stressful events, along with a stronger reliance on individual coping strategies over team-based or organizational resources, which remain largely inaccessible. Finally, we propose design strategies to strengthen esports players’ resilience and coping capacity in stressful environments.

Legal Protection Of Underage E-Sports Players Related To Employment Agreements With E-Sports Companies

The purpose of this study was to be able to determine and analyze the legal protection arrangements for electronic sports players (E-Sports) that fall into the category of minors as it is known that children who are in their teens can not do much, therefore the employment agreement requires written permission of the parents. The author uses normative research methods, the nature of analytical prescriptive research. The results and discussion in this study concluded that legal protection for e-sports players with e-sports companies in principle work agreements have been preventively regulated in the law on sports, the Civil Code including special rules PBESI Regulation No. 034/PB-ESI/B/VI / 2021 as a form of regulation of E-sports legal protection in Indonesia. It's just that in terms of repressive legal protection through PBESI Regulation No. 034/PB-ESI/B/VI / 2021 regarding dispute resolution still contains weaknesses, as it is known that children before working ‘must obtain written permission from their parents and a work agreement is made with their parents’, while the regulation does not explain the involvement of parents in dispute resolution. Thus it is necessary to make changes to Article 43 paragraph (1) PBESI Regulation No. 034/PB-ESI/B/VI / 2021 on the implementation of E-sports activities in Indonesia.

The construction of esports careers in France: Are there gender-based inequalities right from the start?

This article examines the construction of esports careers for French esports players, emphasizing gender-based socialization. We used an online questionnaire administered to both men and women recreational and amateur esports players ( n = 343) to understand and identify potential barriers or levers to participation by men and women, especially for the stage of “Commitment” which is embodied in participation in esports competitions. The theoretical approach centred around the concept of career is mobilized to sequence the careers of men and women esports players and identify the differences between men and women within the different stages of an “esports career.” Key findings reveal that male figures often introduce players to video games, with men generally experiencing more “autonomous” and diversified” initiations than women. They also lag behind men players in terms of years of experience, and they face negative criticism from their peers, impeding their “commitment.” These insights underline the barriers women face at the onset of their esports careers and call for further research into social mechanisms to enhance women's inclusion in esports.

You Are Tilted!: Leveraging Tabletop Gaming to Manage Tilt and Strengthen Team Dynamics in Esports

Tilt, characterized by heightened frustration, is a prevalent issue in esports, significantly impacting team dynamics and player well-being. Traditional Human-Computer Interaction (HCI) solutions often focus on individual strategies, overlooking the team-based nature of esports. This study introduces 'TILTED', a tabletop game co-designed with youth esports players, aimed at fostering open communication and empathy to collectively manage tilt. Findings from four user testing sessions with collegiate esports teams reveal that team-based interventions like 'TILTED' can enhance team cohesion and provide effective strategies for emotional regulation. The game facilitates understanding and empathy among teammates for managing emotions and maintaining a positive team atmosphere. Our research underscores the importance of resetting strategies and shared mental models in helping to mitigate tilt and offers design implications for future team-based interventions to enhance team dynamics and tilt management strategies as a team.

Precarious love of eSports players in China: work-and-play amidst love and precarity

ABSTRACT The eSports industry has transformed rapidly in China in the last decade to become a flourishing business domain. ESports practitioners have been endorsed by the Chinese government (Wong and Meng-Lewis 2023), which recognized eSports as an official occupation in 2019. However, previous studies have interpreted eSports work as ‘playbour’, neglecting the professional and vocational dimensions of eSports. The field of affects related to eSports work is also understudied. This study employs certain ethnographic methods (participant observation and interview) to demonstrate the dialectical relationship between work and play through the construct of ‘work-and-play’, which emphasizes the new work ethic of ‘do what you love’. Esports players engage professionally in the work of playing games motivated by love, hope and ‘the champion dream’. However, their desire to flourish through eSports work could subject them to precarity and become cruel.