Addictive - Games

In gaming, 'addictive' describes mechanics that create compulsive engagement through immediate feedback loops. This often involves reward systems like loot drops, experience points, or unlockable content that trigger dopamine responses. Common design elements include short, repeatable gameplay cycles, progressive difficulty scaling, and social features like leaderboards. While sometimes criticized for exploitative practices, well-executed addictive design can enhance player retention and satisfaction by providing clear goals and measurable progress. The concept reflects how games tap into fundamental human psychology of achievement and reward.