Uses and Gratifications of Biophilic Simulation Games

Abstract

Biophilic simulation games designed to simulate natural environments could have the potential to promote eco-friendly attitudes and behaviors. By adopting the uses and gratifications approach, this study investigated gaming gratifications of a biophilic simulation game, Animal Crossing: New Horizons, and associated pro-animal attitudes and pro-environmental behaviors. Results showed that individuals played Animal Crossing to satisfy fantasy, social, diversion, and enjoyment gratifications. While fantasy and enjoyment gratifications were positively associated with pro-animal attitudes, fantasy, and social gratifications were positively correlated with pro-environmental behaviors.