The gaming world is often ahead of the curve. It’s pioneering in terms of tech, especially when it comes to graphics and combining new software and hardware. However, it also leads the way in more complex aspects of design. One of those is player satisfaction, which comes down to gaming rewards.

Every gamer out there will have encountered rewards at some point. Also referred to as incentives, these systems are designed to give benefits to the players while also serving the game owners and platform operators. To understand them better, it’s necessary to look at what they are and exactly how they work.

What Are Gaming Incentives?

Gaming incentives come in many forms, and you’ll see them in different scenarios. For example, if you like online gaming, you might have searched to discover what Canadian online casinos offer the best bonuses. Players in mobile gaming will have received in-game currency, and many console games give out skins or other in-game materials as rewards.

Whichever platform it is, you’ll find that incentives are connected to action. If it’s a casino, you’re rewarded for making a deposit. In other gaming realms, you get your rewards for logging in, completing tasks or quests, and leveling up.

Types of Rewards

Part of understanding incentives is recognizing them when you see them. The types you come across will depend on the platform and the game. A common, but controversial type is loot boxes, which can be won or, in some cases, purchased. They give players random rewards.

Loot boxes are a delivery method for awarding in-game currency, other kinds of tokens, skins, or gear from the game. Online casinos often give out rewards as free spins and bonus money, with strings attached. Other games unlock new characters, abilities, and areas or give out boosts, trophies, or ways to personalize the experience.

How Do They Benefit Operators?

Rewards are for players, but operators and game developers know that they can get some benefits out of them, too. They have to be intentional and well-designed, but when done correctly, incentives can transform a game or platform and boost its audience. Here’s how operators use psychology to make the most out of them.

Engagement

Rewards are designed to keep players engaged. One key way they do that is by rewarding them for checking in regularly. For games that are difficult and have multiple levels, the accomplishment of finishing the game can feel far away. That’s why little rewards along the way can help hold a player’s attention. The rewards give them satisfaction along the way.

Loyalty

In a similar way, incentives encourage loyalty. Players need to return to get their rewards and keep playing to progress and receive incentives. That makes it less likely that they’ll walk away from the platform. It also means they might talk about the game or show off their rewards to their friends, which also boosts the platform’s profile.

Revenue

The bottom line of this improved loyalty and engagement is increased revenue. Players choose to play regularly, they tell their friends, and the positive experience encourages them to access other platforms and games. This allows casinos, game developers, and platforms to grow strong customer bases.

What’s the Impact on Players?

It’s crucial to acknowledge that operators benefit from their incentive schemes. However, that doesn’t mean that players can’t get something out of it, too. In fact, that’s the whole point of rewards. Besides getting some virtual currency or gear, here’s how incentives impact players. 

Motivation

Rewards are great motivators. When you receive them, your body releases dopamine, which creates a pleasant feeling. On top of that, dopamine is linked to motivational control. Our brains seek that same pleasant feeling, which encourages us to do what we need to in order to get it. That means you’ll feel motivated to complete that tricky level.

Progress and Achievement

As previously mentioned, rewards are an excellent way to feel a sense of accomplishment on the way to finishing a game. Some titles and platforms don’t have an endpoint, which makes rewards even more important. They give players a sense of progress and achievement, which in turn makes the game feel satisfying.

Are Gaming Rewards Worth It?

Gaming rewards do have their benefits for players and developers. That doesn’t mean that every incentive is worth it. However, if it gets you something you want and delivers a sense of satisfaction without spoiling the experience, then it’s definitely adding value.