Study finds that 70 percent of gamers avoid certain games due to toxic communities; according to this, some 70 percent opt for alternatives instead.
Studies conducted recently by Oxford University show that seven out of ten players avoid certain franchise games because of the toxic environments they come with.
Dr Rachel Kowert, research director at mental health organisation Take This conducted this study with an eye toward increasing awareness surrounding mental health within gaming culture – specifically how toxic communities impact commercial success as well as mental wellbeing of fans and players of videogames. As reported by eXputer, Dr Kowert found it strikingly evident that “toxic gaming communities” weren’t only detrimental for individual wellbeing but could also damage videogame revenue and their bottom lines – something she admitted during their conversation reported on by eXputer.
Studies found that 60% of players reported quitting sessions or matches because they experienced hateful or harassing play from fellow gamers – a staggering majority. Furthermore, 70% stated they’d avoid certain games for this very reason; gamers between 13-25 spent 54% more per month playing non toxic titles rather than toxic titles (The study).
Dr. Kowert noted the financial benefits reaped from gaming are manifesting financially through creating safe and positive communities, with six in ten players reporting not spending any money due to toxic communities – more so for male players despite women experiencing more abuse from gaming communities than vice versa.
Issues which had caused players to abandon certain games include racism, misogyny and antisemitism as well as threats of physical and sexual violence as well as death threats.
