Mikrotransaktionen und Lootboxen in Videospielen

Microtransactions and loot boxes have become a defining feature of digital gaming, but what truly motivates players to spend money? This study provides empirically grounded answers: based on an online survey of 141 participants, André Kaufmann systematically examines gratifications, player types, and sociodemographic factors influencing purchasing behaviour. Using correlation analyses, Mann-Whitney U tests, and chi-square tests, he demonstrates that neither player type, age, income nor education level has a statistically significant effect on loot box purchases. The work addresses communication and media scholars, game studies researchers, and industry practitioners.