A1 Refereed original research article in a scientific journal

Gaming for good? exploring associations between game design features and self-reported sustainable behaviours in Pokémon GO




AuthorsKordyaka, Bastian; Karaosmanoglu, Sukran; Laato, Samuli

PublisherTaylor & Francis

Publication year2026

Journal: Behaviour and Information Technology

ISSN0144-929X

eISSN1362-3001

DOIhttps://doi.org/10.1080/0144929X.2026.2645884

Publication's open availability at the time of reportingOpen Access

Publication channel's open availability Partially Open Access publication channel

Web address https://doi.org/10.1080/0144929x.2026.2645884

Self-archived copy’s web addresshttps://research.utu.fi/converis/portal/detail/Publication/523325534

Self-archived copy's licenceCC BY

Self-archived copy's versionPublisher`s PDF


Abstract

The location-based game (LBG) Pokémon GO remains one of the most successful and widely studied video games of recent years. Designed for outdoor play, LBGs have been associated with increased physical activity and environmental awareness beyond the game context. This study examines how specific game design features in Pokémon GO are associated with players' self-reported sustainable behaviours. Drawing on a motivational framework that categorises design features into the dimensions of achievement, immersion, and social engagement, we analysed online survey data from 303 players. Results showed that (a) only immersion-related features were positively associated with self-reported positive sustainable behaviours, and (b) no significant relationships were found between the motivational dimensions and negative sustainable behaviours. Further analysis indicated that participants' country of residence was a significant factor and that the design feature reminders, cues, and notifications accounted for the positive association within the immersion category. Our findings highlight how immersive, human-centred design features may align with sustainability-oriented dispositions, offering new insights into the interplay between game experiences and sustainability values.


Downloadable publication

This is an electronic reprint of the original article.
This reprint may differ from the original in pagination and typographic detail. Please cite the original version.





Last updated on 13/05/2026 09:32:27 AM