Online Role-Playing Research Articles

Optimal data allocation and fairness for online games

In our previous work, we proposed a load distribution technique and a dynamic data reallocation method for web-based Multiplayer Online Role-Playing Game MORPG systems. Our proposed approach reduced the average server latency for game players. However, latency values varied widely resulting in some game players gaining an advantage over others. In this paper, we deal with data allocation and consider latency fairness in the form of a combinational optimisation problem. We develop an optimisation model in which the objective function minimises the differences in latency values and we solve instances from this model using an exact algorithm. Our model improved latency fairness and more stable server loads than the previous data reallocation method. Furthermore, it provides more stable gameplay using ten web servers instead of five.

Analyzing the Effect of TCP and Server Population on Massively Multiplayer Games

Many Massively Multiplayer Online Role-Playing Games (MMORPGs) use TCP flows for communication between the server and the game clients. The utilization of TCP, which was not initially designed for (soft) real-time services, has many implications for the competing traffic flows. In this paper we present a series of studies which explore the competition between MMORPG and other traffic flows. For that aim, we first extend a source-based traffic model, based on player’s activities during the day, to also incorporate the impact of the number of players sharing a server (server population) on network traffic. Based on real traffic traces, we statistically model the influence of the variation of the server’s player population on the network traffic, depending on the action categories (i.e., types of in-game player behaviour). Using the developed traffic model we prove that while server population only modifies specific action categories, this effect is significant enough to be observed on the overall traffic. We find that TCPVegasis a good option for competing flows in order not to throttle the MMORPG flows and that TCP SACK is more respectful with game flows than other TCP variants, namely,Tahoe, Reno,andNew Reno. Other tests show that MMORPG flows do not significantly reduce their sending window size when competing against UDP flows. Additionally, we study the effect of RTT unfairness between MMORPG flows, showing that it is less important than in the case of network-limited TCP flows.

Social argumentation in online synchronous communication

The ability to argue well is a valuable skill for students in both formal and informal learning environments. While many studies have explored the argumentative practices in formal environments and some researchers have developed tools to enhance the argumentative skills, the social argumentation that is occurring in informal spaces has yet to be broadly investigated. The challenges associated with observing and capturing the interactions in authentic settings can be identified as the main reasons for this deficiency. On the other hand, the advancements in information technologies and the way these improvements lift the barriers between school and afterschool settings present ways to eliminate these challenges. To this end, this study utilizes a popular Massively Multiplayer Online Role-Playing Game (MMORPG), World of Warcraft (WoW), which provides an authentic environment, to investigate the quality of argumentation in online synchronous communication without interfering with the substantial characteristics of the interaction. The results of the study demonstrate the quality of argumentation skills that a group of adolescents are displaying in online synchronous WoW chat as well as the patterns that emerge from the interplay between a number of contextual variables including synchronicity, interest, and authenticity.

From Separation to Integration

This research examined the identity development of Korean adult players in the online game world. Q methodology was used to investigate the subjectivity of self-development in Mabinogi (Massive Multiplayer Online Role-Playing Game). Thirty-seven adult players sorted 57 behavior statements to reflect the changes in their behaviors from past to present. Three types of self-development were found: achievement-oriented development, control-oriented development, and relational development. The behavior patterns of these three types were compared to identify similarities and differences among them in terms of psychological meanings and values in the online game life. The results illustrate that the online game world can be defined as a new behavioral setting, made possible by digital technology, in which individuals are able to experience three different paths of identity development.

Design and analysis of collaborative interactions in social educational videogames

Children with serious illness face enormous challenges in their daily life. These individuals must not only deal with the direct consequences of their disease, but they must often cope with being in a hospital or at home, being unable in many cases go to school. Frequently, connections with classmates, neighbours, and sometimes even some with relatives are lost. Therefore, entertainment and enjoyment should be provided in order to avoid boredom and to improve their affective state. Currently, children in the HUC (University Hospital of the Canary Islands) have a classroom with computers, books and toys supervised by a teacher. Children in their individual rooms are isolated. Social videogames can be a solution by allowing students to enhance their communication, education and entertainment possibilities. In this paper, we present the design, development and evaluation of a collaborative educational videogame prototype for hospitalised children based on a Massively Multiplayer Online Role-Playing Game (MMORPG) engine. Moreover, we present a case study of students’ social and affective interactions using said videogame. This work was developed as part of the Hospital Virtual Educative Service (SAVEH) project funded by the European program MAC 2007–2013.

I’M BY DEFAULT POLITE – POLITENESS AND POSITIONING IN MMORPGS

MMORPGs (Massively Multiplayer Online Role-playing Games) like World of Warcraft® require gamers to communicate in English regardless of their language competence in it. Therefore, English becomes the lingua franca of many gamers. Furthermore, gamers have to communicate effi ciently with one another in high stress situations causing another linguistic challenge. These conditions do not lead to the assumption that politeness is of any relevance in MMORPGs but rather that these games are hostile and impolite environments. A survey investigating the language usage of gamers, including a questionnaire and a selfcompiled corpus, sheds light on the language usage and politeness of gamers. This survey asks how and why gamers coming from different language backgrounds using ELF in MMORPGs utilize politeness to position themselves.

Editorial Retractions

This article refers to:The Evaluation of User Experience of the Virtual World in Relation to Extrinsic and Intrinsic MotivationThe Dynamic User Activities in Massive Multiplayer Online Role-Playing GamesConsumers' Trust in Virtual Mall Shopping: The Role of Social Presence and Perceived SecurityCan 3DTV Create Immersive Environments?

Motivations for self-assembling into project teams

This study investigates the self-assembly mechanisms of ad hoc project teams using a bipartite network perspective. Individuals and projects are modeled as two types of nodes and team membership as relations between them. This approach enables us to investigate factors that impact voluntary team assembly at the individual, dyadic, and team levels simultaneously. Using Exponential Random Graph Models (ERGM/p*), we study players’ combat teams in a Massively Multiplayer Online Role-Playing Game (MMORPG) as a case of self-assembled project teams. Empirical results show that individuals are motivated to join ad hoc teams to complete difficult projects but not projects with long durations. We also found that individuals tend to collaborate with specific teammates who have complementary skills, those who have similar age or skill level, and those who are affiliated with the same organizational entity.

Treatment Strategies for Online Role-Playing Gaming Problems in Couples

There are many ways that the use of technology, including gaming, enriches couples’ lives such as allowing partners to interact in a different sphere that enhances their communication. Online role-playing gaming can help couple relationships in the development of social interactions and increased understanding of gender roles and a partner's context and may appropriately increase the use of fantasy within a relationship; on the other hand, online gaming may pose unique challenges for couples. The purpose of this article is to outline the challenges related to massively multiplayer online role-playing games, including individual challenges, challenges to daily life, and threats to intimacy. We also provide specific assessment and treatment strategies that address the challenges based on a multitheoretical model regarding the influence of technology on couple relationships.

Self-Concept Deficits in Massively Multiplayer Online Role-Playing Games Addiction

Background: Previous studies on Internet addiction point towards a particular constellation of personality traits and deficits in social competence of players addicted to massively multiplayer online role-playing games (MMORPGs), which are hypothesized to result from impairments in self-concept. The aim of this study was to examine differences in self-concept and degree of avatar identification in World of Warcraft addicted, non-addicted and naive (nonexperienced) participants. Methods: Participants (n = 45) completed interviews and self-report questionnaires on social, emotional and physical aspects of self-concept. Attributes of participants’ ‘actual self’, ‘ideal self’ and their avatar were assessed using the Giessen test. The extent of avatar identification was examined by assessing differences between ‘ideal self’ and avatar evaluations. Results: In contrast to nonaddicted and naive participants, addicted players showed a more negative body appraisal and lower self-esteem as well as lower permeability, social response, general mood and social potency on the Giessen test subscales. They further showed significantly lower discrepancies between ‘ideal self’ and avatar ratings on nearly all Giessen test subscales. Discussion: The results point towards impairments in self-concept and a higher degree in avatar identification in addicted MMORPG players compared to the remaining participants. These results could have important implications for the treatment of addicted MMORPG players.

Impact of Multiplayer Online Role-Playing Games upon the Psychosocial Well-Being of Adolescents and Young Adults: Reviewing the Evidence

Introduction. For many people, the online environment has become a significant arena for everyday living, and researchers are beginning to explore the multifaceted nature of human interaction with the Internet. The burgeoning global popularity and distinct design features of massively multiplayer online role-playing games (MMORPGs) have received particular attention, and discourses about the phenomenon suggest both positive and negative impact upon gamer health. Aim. The purpose of this paper was to critically appraise the research literature to determine if playing MMORPGs impacts upon the psychosocial well-being of adolescents and young adults. Method. Initial searches were conducted on nine databases spanning the years 2002 to 2012 using key words, such as online gaming, internet gaming, psychosocial, and well-being, which, in addition to hand searching, identified six studies meeting the inclusion and exclusion criteria for this review. Results. All six studies strongly associated MMORPG playing with helpful and harmful impact to the psychosocial well-being of the populations under study; however due to the methodologies employed, only tentative conclusions may be drawn. Conclusion. Since both helpful and harmful effects were reported, further multidisciplinary research is recommended to specifically explore the clinical implications and therapeutic potentialities of this modern, growing phenomenon.

Interaction with the Game and Motivation among Players of Massively Multiplayer Online Role-Playing Games

Knowledge about users interacting with Massively Multiplayer Online Role-Playing Games (MMORPG) is fundamental in order to prevent their potential negative effects on behavior. For this reason, the present study analyzed the relationship between styles of play and motivations. An online questionnaire asking for socio-demographic details, playing style, characteristics of the game played and motivations for playing, was answered by 430 Spanish-speaking MMORPG players (45.1% males). The identified profile for players, far away from the stereotype of an adolescent, consisted in a person who mainly plays on PvP (Player versus Player) servers, choosing the type of game according to his experience. Regarding motivations, they were interested in relating with other players through the game (Socialization), in discovering the game's possibilities and development of its adventures (Exploration), to a lesser extent in leadership and prestige (Achievement) and, lastly, identification with an avatar and escape from reality (Dissociation). Although part of the reason for playing was escapism and/or stress relief, the main motivation had a social nature. We conclude that MMORPG offer an attractive environment for a broad spectrum of people, and we have not been able to confirm the stereotype of a loner avoiding reality, taking refuge in games.

RELATIONSHIP BETWEEN GUILD CONFORMITY AND LOYALTY OF MASSIVELY MULTIPLAYER ONLINE ROLE-PLAYING GAME (MMORPG) GAMERS

This study aimed to determine the relationship between guild conformity and loyalty of MMORPG (Massively Multiplayer Online Role-Playing Games) gamers in Semarang . Subjects in this study were selected purposively, ie 15-30 year-old gamers, play MMORPG, join in a guild, located in Semarang, and willing to participate in this study. Data collected in this study using a Likert scale form compiled by researchers, namely gamer loyalty scale consists of 21 items (reliability coefficient = 0.918) and the guild conformity scale consisting of 16 items ( reliability coefficient = 0.863). Analysis of data using the correlation test of Karl Pearson Product Moment to determine the relationship between guild conformity and loyalty of MMORPG gamers. The results showed a significance value of 0.908 (p> 0.005), which suggests that the relationship between the two variables is not significant. Therefore, there was no significant relationship between guild conformity and loyalty of MMORPG gamers.

Scalable software architecture for distributed MMORPG traffic generation based on integration of UrBBaN-Gen and IMUNES

We present a scalable software architecture for distributed traffic generation capable of producing Massively Multiplayer Online Role-Playing Game (MMORPG) packet flows in a statistically accurate manner for thousands of concurrent players. The main challenge, to achieve truly massive scale traffic generation, has been achieved by introducing kernel based virtualization, pioneered by the network simulator/emulator IMUNES, into the User Behaviour Based Network Traffic Generation (UrBBan-Gen, introduced in our earlier work). The UrBBan-Gen software architecture consists of four modules: Service repository, Control function and user interface, Behaviour process, and Traffic generation process. IMUNES has been integratedinto the virtualization part of the Traffic generation process,which has resulted in two improvements: 1) increasing thenumber of generated packet flows while accurately replicating the required statistical properties, and, 2) introducing the ability to run various network scenarios in simulated, as well as real networks, under realistic traffic loads. With respect to the traffic generation capabilities of the previous version of UrBBan-Gen, which was based on Linux containers, the IMUNES based solution demonstrates higher scalability, lower packet loss rates, and lower CPU load for both the UDP traffic at high packet rate and “thin” TCP traffic flows typical for MMORPGs.

Identifying the Attractive Attributes of the Massively Multiplayer Online Role-Playing Game Designs

The Massively Multiplayer Online Role-Playing Game (MMORPG) industry is growing rapidly. A MMORPG is composed of many design attributes; therefore, the game developers cannot satisfy all of the design attributes due to the constraint of development resources and the time-to-market pressure of the product. The purpose of this study is to help game developers to make the trade-off decision of where to invest their limited resources to implement critical design attributes. To better understand the relationship between attributes performance and satisfaction, the two-dimensional quality model, Kano model, is applied to identify the key attributes in satisfaction. Results indicated that these design attributes of MMORPGs were classified into different quality categories, including attractive, one-dimensional, must-be and indifferent qualities. By applying the Kano quality classifications, the attractive and important design attributes can be identified. It also can help game designers determine the priority to resolve the trade-offs dilemma in multiple-attribute optimization of satisfaction for MMORPG design.

Online Gaming Addiction? Motives Predict Addictive Play Behavior in Massively Multiplayer Online Role-Playing Games

Recently, there have been growing concerns about excessive online gaming. Playing Massively Multiplayer Online Role-Playing Games (MMORPGs) appears to be particularly problematic, because these games require a high degree of commitment and time investment from the players to the detriment of occupational, social, and other recreational activities and relations. A number of gaming motives have been linked to excessive online gaming in adolescents and young adults. We assessed 175 current MMORPG players and 90 nonplayers using a Web-based questionnaire regarding their gaming behavior, problems as consequences of gaming, and game motivations and tested their statistical associations. Results indicated that (a) MMORPG players are significantly more likely to experience gaming-related problems relative to nonplayers, and that (b) the gaming motivations escapism and mechanics significantly predicted excessive gaming and appeared as stronger predictors than time investment in game. The findings support the necessity of using measures that distinguish between different types of online games. In addition, this study proves useful regarding the current discussion on establishing (online) gaming addiction as a diagnosis in future categorizations of psychopathology.

Using online roleplay in undergraduate midwifery education: A case-study

Online roleplay i.e. role play which occurs using an online asynchronous discussion board, can be effectively utilised to teach a variety of skills to midwifery students. This paper will discuss the design and implementation of an online roleplay for a small (n = 19) class of final year undergraduate Midwifery students. It briefly describes the design of the online roleplay and outlines the expected learning outcomes of the activity. It then outlines evaluative survey results for student evaluation of the online role play. Results focus on student opinion of communication and collaboration skills developed through participation in the roleplay. Students considered that the online roleplay provided them with a means to allow communication skills to be developed and practiced. They also believed that the roleplay enable them to practice collaboration in an authentic real world setting. Finally implications for use of this method of teaching in nurse/midwife education are discussed.

Player behavior and traffic characterization for MMORPGs: a survey

Massively Multiplayer Online Role-Playing Games (MMORPGs) are one of the most exciting and most rapidly expanding genres of online games. This survey presents state-of-the-art and current research efforts in measuring, characterizing, and modeling the player behavior and the network traffic, as well as the relationships between them. We also tabulate the measurement, modeling and analysis results regarding network traffic and player behavior found in literature, with key information regarding each dataset. Finally, we list currently confirmed claims and open research questions in the area of MMORPGs.

What Makes an MMORPG Leader? A Social Cognitive Theory-Based Approach to Understanding the Formation of Leadership Capabilities in Massively Multiplayer Online Role-Playing Games

Using Bandura’s (1986) Social Cognitive Theory (SCT) and McCormick’s (2001) SCT-applied models of leadership, we aimed to understand the complex processes of leadership development in Massively Multiplayer Online Role-Playing Games (MMORPG) environments. Using in-depth interview data from 20 Singaporean World of Warcraft players, we examined how environmental factors (e.g. game design, communication, and collaboration structures), personal factors (e.g. self-efficacy), and gaming behaviour affect the development of leadership capabilities. The findings suggest that Bandura’s and McCormick’s frameworks are useful in explaining how these factors contribute to leadership development, with some examples including: 1) game designs that allow for formalised leadership roles can create better opportunities for leadership development, and 2) self-efficacy, an important trait for leadership development, can be cultivated through confidence gained by reinforcing knowledge, skills, and abilities (KSAs) through repeated application of these KSAs in similar situations. Implications for research and practice are discussed.

Analysis of Context Dependence in Social Interaction Networks of a Massively Multiplayer Online Role-Playing Game

Rapid advances in modern computing and information technology have enabled millions of people to interact online via various social network and gaming services. The widespread adoption of such online services have made possible analysis of large-scale archival data containing detailed human interactions, presenting a very promising opportunity to understand the rich and complex human behavior. In collaboration with a leading global provider of Massively Multiplayer Online Role-Playing Games (MMORPGs), here we present a network science-based analysis of the interplay between distinct types of user interaction networks in the virtual world. We find that their properties depend critically on the nature of the context-interdependence of the interactions, highlighting the complex and multilayered nature of human interactions, a robust understanding of which we believe may prove instrumental in the designing of more realistic future virtual arenas as well as provide novel insights to the science of collective human behavior.