10 Clever Ways Developers Make You Addicted To Video Games

6. Perfecting The "Easy To Learn, Tough To Master" Design Philosophy

Designing a game to be addictive is not necessarily a malicious thing. In fact, many addictive games earn that reputation because they are well-made titles that are so great, you just don't want to stop playing them.

One of the most common characteristics of such games is their "Easy To Learn, Tough To Master" design structure. Similar to how a developer will get you lost in valuable early game rewards, these games hook players by allowing them to believe that they have figured out everything there is to know in a relatively short timeframe, before showing them just how little they actually know.

This concept may be simple, but the successful execution of it may just be the most difficult thing a developer can strive for. However, many of the greatest - and most addictive - games ever made possess this elusive quality.