An investigation into the factors that influence the buying process of online role-playing gamers

Abstract

Massively multiplayer online role-playing games (MMORPGs) are the dominant form of online games. This study attempts to uncover what factors influence gamers when purchasing a MMORPG and renewing its monthly subscription. The results of this study confirm that MMORPGs are still male-dominated and gamers are likely to be single and have higher levels of education. A MMORPG should cost around €40 and a reasonable monthly subscription fee should be around €13. Gameplay videos and word of mouth are primary sources of information. Gamers want MMORPGs that have good stories, gameplay and graphics and will only renew subscriptions if they have a wide variety of things to do.