Not So Angry Birds: Psychological Benefits of Mobile Games

This  study  explored  factors  that  may trigger players’ enjoyment of mobile games on smart devices.  Gender differences and the psychological benefits of mobile gameplay were further assessed. A laboratory experiment was conducted. Results revealed that there was a significant interaction effect of game challenge and past mobile game experience on game enjoyment.  A significant gender difference was found, with males performing games better, and enjoying them more than females. The indirect effect of game rewards on self-esteem through enjoyment suggested that game enjoyment may be considered an important mechanism connecting satisfying gaming performance with psychological health.

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