What Kinds of Rewards in Games Keep Us Coming Back Again and Again?

We play games for many reasons. Some people play them as a hobby, others want to get adrenaline and satisfaction, but all of us do it to entertain ourselves. Games are a fun way to spend our free time and to completely relax.

But, there are other reasons for playing games: among all of these advantages, the reward system that games offer is one of the most powerful ways to keep us engaged.

What kind of rewards can we get, and why do these rewards matter?

Well, there are many rewards in the world of gaming. Some of them are daily log-in bonuses, achievement badges, loot boxes, narrative payoffs, etc.

Rewards are integral to the psychology of play. But, are some rewards more effective than others? And why do some games compel us to return day after day, and others are forgotten after the first session?

This article delves into the various types of rewards in games, and the psychology behind the reward system. 

Why Do We Crave Rewards In Games?

It’s not just the reward itself that matters - it’s the expectation of a reward that triggers motivation. When gaming, we trigger the release of dopamine, a neurotransmitter associated with pleasure and learning. Since we feel great while playing, we tend to repeat actions that lead to positive outcomes, and that motivates us to keep on playing.

There are two types of motivation:

• Intrinsic motivation - when players enjoy the act of playing itself;
• Extrinsic motivation - when players are driven by external rewards, such as points or items.

Intrinsic enjoyment usually leads to longer-lasting satisfaction. But, extrinsic rewards shape our behavior. The best games deliver intrinsic satisfaction - solving a puzzle, exploring the world, or mastering a skill. But, they also offer extrinsic incentives, like achievements, cosmetic items, or story unlocks. To attract players, game designers typically combine both types.

This blend of motivation is also what makes various games and platforms appealing. Take gambling websites, or top rated no KYC crypto casinos as an example - they are appealing for offering fast, rewarding gameplay with many benefits. Players don’t need any lengthy verification process - they jump straight to the action without any paperwork. Just like well-designed video games, these platforms keep users engaged, by giving them many incentives to keep them playing. 

1. Progression-Based Rewards

People tend to see progress in everything they do. Progression is one of the most important types of rewards when it comes to gaming. That includes leveling up, unlocking new abilities, discovering some new areas, and so on. Game developers build systems, where growth is visible and measurable. That growth reflects your hard work and skill and gives you motivation to continue playing.

There are some progression-based rewards that we can usually see in many popular games. 

Leveling Systems

Leveling systems are common in role-playing games (RPGs), such as The Elder Scrolls, or Final Fantasy. These games, for example, use experience points (XP) to track a player’s journey. Then, they reward them for winning battles, completing quests, or exploration milestones. Every new level is a big achievement here - new abilities are unlocked, and after that, new gameplay opportunities emerge.

Some action-heavy games, such as Call of Duty, have also adopted XP systems. Their players can feel a sense of development in unlocking custom weapons and perks. This supports our psychological need for progression - each match has a bigger purpose, where short sessions of  gameplay become big steps toward personal achievement. 

Skill Unlocks and Upgrades

Many games let players unlock new skills, tools, or abilities. These are powerful forms of in-game rewards, to improve our satisfaction and gameplay. As players progress, they can gain access to new abilities and weapons, and open new strategies and experiences. All of this will also keep them motivated and make the game even more appealing.

Permanent upgrades give the biggest feeling of accomplishment. But, generally speaking, by steadily unlocking these upgrades, most of the players stay motivated and continue playing their favorite games.

Narrative Progression

Some games are based on strong storytelling - some of the most popular are The Last of Us, and Red Dead Redemption 2. These games have some unique ways to reward their players - they add new chapters and character developments, and some give even plot twists.

For many gamers, the story is the most satisfying reward. Every mission, dialogue, and discovery in these games contributes to a bigger emotional journey. Also, players can’t wait to see what will happen next - there is a lot of excitement that keeps them motivated.

3. Variable Rewards and the Power of Surprise

Variable rewards are unpredictable outcomes that players receive as a result of their actions. While many games offer predictable awards, variable ones are randomized. This creates a sense of surprise and excitement for the player because you never know what you are going to receive.

Loot Boxes and Gacha Mechanics

Games like Overwatch or FIFA Ultimate Team rely on these systems that keep players engaged. They offer them a chance to receive rare or valuable items - but not for sure. This randomness improves the player's excitement. 

Drop Rates and Rare Items

Massive multiplayer online role-playing games, such as World of Warcraft, usually feature some rare and powerful items. They often come from defeating bosses, and these actions require an excellent strategy, great teamwork, and a lot of effort.

After players defeat the boss, the game generates “loot”. Loot is a collection of rewards like weapons, armor, or some crafting materials. However, not all items will drop every time; each item has a drop rate, which is the probability that it will appear after the boss is defeated.

Mystery and Discovery

Some exploration games, like The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild, have very surprising rewards. These games are designed to spark curiosity and reward discovery.

Some hidden treasures, shrines, and easter eggs are the main rewards in this exploration game. Players usually think “What will I find next?”, and this improves their curiosity and desire to explore the unknown. 

Sometimes, the reward isn’t a physical item, but a piece of hidden lore or an emotional moment. These make exploration games very personal.

4. Cosmetic and Customisation Rewards

Some gamers enjoy visual rewards, as these are very important to express themselves and to stand out in the digital world. Visual rewards don’t affect gameplay directly but can give a lot of satisfaction to the players. They make players unique, wearing their cosmetic rewards proudly. 

Skins and Outfits

In games like Fortnite, Valorant, and League of Legends, cosmetic rewards are the major motivation of the players. These games offer hundreds of visual options, known as skins, and they change the appearance of characters, their weapons, and sometimes - game effects.

Skins are various: some are common and easily accessible, and others are very rare and time-limited. Thanks to this, they are status symbols or collector’s items.

Players have the motivation to gain exclusive skins to stand out from the crowd. Through skins, they can show their style, their long-term commitment, and various achievements in the game. 

Mounts, Pets, and Emotes

In MMORPGs, such as World of Warcraft, or Final Fantasy XIV, players can collect mounts, pets, and emotes. These rewards are aimed to personalize their in-game experiences. 

Mounts are creatures or vehicles used for travel. They range from simple horses to massive dragons, flying machines, and fantasy beasts. Some of these mounts are very rare, and players can only achieve them by doing something special - defeating a tough boss, or completing special achievements.

The same goes for pets and emotes. Pets serve as rewards and are companions in the game. Emotes allow players to express their emotions and react to events. They are great for building social bonds and making online interaction more human-like.

5. Social and Competitive Rewards

Multiplayer games often provide rewards in the form of social recognition. Players feel a strong sense of motivation when playing with a group of like-minded gamers, and there is something satisfying about achieving success together.

When your crew earns recognition on the server or leaderboard, it feels very personal - because you helped that happen. This shared success strengthens team bonds, and every individual feels important here.

Leaderboards

Some games have ranking systems (like those in League of Legends, or Rocket League). These systems tap into players’ natural competitive instincts. To climb the ranks means to earn rewards, prove your skill, and gain respect among peers. Reaching a top rank on the leaderboard is a powerful goal for most of the players. 

Achievements and Titles

Gamers love trophies and collectibles. And game developers know that, so they have created some special titles or badges for the top achievements. Players can be awarded for in-game accomplishments. 

For example, an Xbox’s Achievement system turns small tasks into big accomplishments. PlayStation’s Trophies turn even the smallest tasks into collectible rewards. This way, players know that their hard work is valued and rewarded.

Clan or Guild Status

Many games are based on strong social elements. For gamers, a reward itself is to become a part of a successful guild or clan. The success and the progress of the group means that every individual contributed to something. These rewards give a sense of purpose and belonging to the players.

6. Daily, Weekly, and Seasonal Rewards

Some rewards come up every day. They are time-based and tend to keep players for a long time. These usually include daily bonuses, or bonuses during limited-time events, holidays, or special occasions.

Daily Quests and Log-in Bonuses

Some mobile games and free-to-play games give daily bonuses - just for logging in. This practice is great for encouraging regular play, and to keep players entertained, motivated and passionate. For example, AFK Arena, or Clash Royale use this method regularly and increase the value of these rewards from time to time.

Limited-Time Events

During certain events, players can get special skins, stickers, and many other rewards. Some seasonal events, like winter challenges or Halloween skins, create excitement, but also a sense of urgency - they only last for a few days. 

Some gamers are worried that they might miss the joy of these events. If they don’t play during these special occasions, the content might be gone forever. So, the fear of missing out (FOMO) is a great motivator in these situations.

Battle Passes

Battle Pass is a pretty recent trend, where players can get various rewards during a season. The more they play, the more stuff can be unlocked. It is a way to keep players coming back for more. 

Games like Fortnite, Apex Legends, and Call of Duty: Warzone, are using this strategy. Players have the feeling like they’re always working toward some next cool item, just by playing regularly. This system offers a sense of value, especially when rewards are exclusive, or visually stunning. 

7. Community-Based and User-Generated Content

Sometimes, in the gaming world, players can get rewarded by the community around the game. For example, some platforms like Twitch and YouTube can turn gameplay into a performance. The reward that players get is in the real world; in return, the best players get likes, views, fans, followers, and engagement. 

Many players want to achieve impressive results and create entertaining content for their audience. So, they are trying very hard, practicing more, and doing their best to get these achievements. 

In games like Minecraft, or Dreams, the reward is the act of creation. When players see others enjoy or praise their work, it creates a lot of satisfaction and rewarding feelings. This is what motivates them to do even a better job, to create more, and to play more. 

Some game developers run certain global or community challenges. For example, a challenge might ask the entire player base to do something within a set time. After the challenge is done successfully, everyone who participated in this challenge gets the reward. It can be some cosmetic item, in-game currency, or access to a special event.

8. Real World Rewards

Of course, we can’t forget the real-world rewards, like financial and physical rewards. These motivate many professional esports players to keep on playing and practicing. 

Many successful gamers today have built their careers, earned a lot of money, and become celebrities, thanks to their great results. Some have won amazing tournaments, or difficult matches, and earned financial rewards, becoming celebrities in the gaming world. 

Certain tournaments and esports also offer big cash prizes or even scholarships. Sometimes, elite players and champions earn money through their skills and results. 

Blockchain-based games and NFT systems can give ownership of in-game assets to the players, and opportunities to earn real money. This might sound controversial to some, but many pro gamers are interested and motivated to participate. 

Gamers can redeem in-game achievements for physical rewards, like shirts, posters, or figurines. This way, game developers show their gratitude to the best players.

9. Emotional Rewards

Emotional rewards are the special satisfaction players get when playing certain games. For example, in games like Mass Effect, or Persona 5, players can form real connections with their characters. These bonds sometimes feel very personal, like real friendships. Players start to care about what happens next to their character, and the outcomes of certain events, and that is what motivates them to keep on playing.

Similarly, some games let you make moral choices, such as Detroit: Become Human. Every choice you make leads to a different story outcome. Gamers can see how their decisions shape the world, and sometimes replay, to explore what would happen if they chose differently.

Finally, there is a lot of emotional satisfaction when players finish a game that takes them on an emotional journey. Sometimes, while playing a game, we experience tension, joy, anger, and even sadness. The ending of some games gives us a feeling of closure - similar to finishing a great book or a movie. It sometimes might feel bittersweet, but also rewarding.

Conclusion

There is a strong psychological impact behind rewards in games. It causes emotional response in players, a lot of satisfaction, and increases motivation for playing.

Games developers understand that rewards in the games turn simple, casual moments into memorable ones. And players continue to chase these moments, again and again.

The only thing that matters here is - what kind of rewards do you find appealing. When you realize that, then you’ll know what kind of games you want to play. Every reward can bring positive emotions, motivate you to keep playing, and even inspire self-improvement in other areas of life.