How games can activate the three motivators (Autonomy, Mastery, Purpose) of self-determination theory.

2. Human beings are driven by both
extrinsic and intrinsic motivations.

3. Self-determination theory (SDT)
A theory of motivation. It is concerned with supporting our
natural or intrinsic tendencies to behave in effective and healthy
ways, people have innate psychological needs:

4. Autonomy
control
Choices
are
available
Failure is
OK
Player
centered

5. Games provide a many different choices of action, players can choose their
path through the game. Pacman for example, allows the player to chose the
path they want to avoid the ghosts and munch up the power points.

6. Mastery
Competence
Progress and
Development
Master the
environment
and outcome
Problem
Solving
Frequent and
direct
feedback

7. Games give the player a sense of mastery because with each attempt, the player
learns how to get faster or better and achieve the particular goal of the level. In
Angry birds, every attempt, you gradually realize where to attack and knock the
structure down and defeat the Green Pigs.

8. Purpose
Caring for
Others
Relationship
with others
Communication
Creation of
Meaning
Sense of
Purpose

9. Most of the games, give the player a sense that he or she is contributing to
something bigger than themselves. World of Warcraft is a matched example,
which allows players to socialize and collaborate together towards the higher
purpose of defeating evil.