Gaming in the Crossfire

How Toxicity Affects Player Experience in PUBG

Abstract

Negative online behaviors, such as toxicity, continue being issues in several popular multiplayer online games (PUBG) affecting player’s experience. Related research suggests that there are individual differences in how players understand the concept, and that various interconnected variables are relevant in understanding the emergence of toxicity. Although previous studies have illustrated common types and features of in-game toxic behavior, it remains unclear what psychological mechanisms can explain why toxic behavior emerges and evolves in gaming environments. To fill this research gap, this study explores the forms, causes, and effects of toxicity in PUBG, drawing insights from player interviews and community forum analyses. The findings reveal that toxicity manifests as trolling, harassment, skill-based insults, and gender-based discrimination, disrupting communication and creating hostile environments. The results were used to create a series of recommendations for online video game developers in their attempts to address toxicity. Recommendations included emphasizing transparency with a game's player base, overhauling the in-game report function, and introducing a system for reinforcing positive behaviors.