Appeal of online computer games: a user perspective

This paper examines the perceptual antecedents of the appeal of online computer games from the users’ perspective. It proposes a framework that links the perceived ease of use, perceived entertainment, and perceived irritation with the appeal of an online computer game, measured through attitude toward the game and the user’s intention to play again. Results from a field study indicate that the three proposed perceptual antecedents explain over 60 per cent of variance in both attitude and intention to return. This research demonstrates that factors contributing to user perceptions of online games are important aspects of computer game development. Further research through experimental studies is also advocated.