Social Networking Design at the University of Texas at Austin: Incentives Gamers Receive

Points- Points were introduced to games as early as the 1970's. Points gave gamers a way to keep track of their input into the game. It was a means of giving the player a goal or a state of accomplishment.

Money- Money was introduced to games to make points more concrete and meaningful. Money gave certain aspects of the game have value therefore the players would have an advantage or a disadvantage depending on their amount of resources. For instance, the more money one has the more he or she can buy and invest back into the game for further improvement.

Real World Value- Some can play games for real cash value. These games can include anything from betting, gambling, trading, and buying/selling goods. Anything can have value to them as long as the players give them a value. For instance, the more popular a game is the more real world value it may have. Similar to the real world, if there is an item or something that is rare or difficult to acheive the more value that item will have.

Growth & Development- These are games that do not have a points, money, or real world value. These games are more based on the amount of time spent playing which is a direct relationship with the gamer's abilitiy to be successful. Or simply put, the more you play the better you get.

Online Gaming- Many players perfer playing against each other because it creates a sense of social interation and unexpeced outcome. Many players find it more challenging and engaging when playing against other players online than playing against an A.I. This is because unlike an A.I. people can also continue to improve and are not limited.

Level Up- The process by which characters reach a new level, gain greater attributes, and learn more abilities. It usually involves earning enough points. Once you gain a level or levels the game may open up more oppertunities such as new items, worlds, stages, quests, etc.