"I Don't Have Faith in the Developers to Use My Feedback": Understanding Player Values and Expectancy for Reporting Systems in Video Games
2026-05-04 • Human-Computer Interaction
Human-Computer Interaction
AI summaryⓘ
The authors studied why players report others in multiplayer video games to understand what they hope to achieve and if they believe the system works. They found that players report both to get back at bad behavior quickly and to help create a better community over time. However, players are sometimes unsure if reporting actually helps, depending on things like how trustworthy the game company is and how clear the reporting process is. The authors suggest that understanding these views can help improve reporting systems and digital moderation overall.
reporting systemsexpectancy-value theoryin-game toxicityplayer behaviordigital moderationaltruismretributionreporting transparencymultiplayer video gamescommunity management
Authors
Michael Yin, Chenxinran, Shen, Robert Xiao
Abstract
Reporting systems in multiplayer video games allow players to express their dissatisfaction with others and combat in-game toxicity. In this work, we examined the act of reporting through the lens of expectancy-value theory. Using a distributed survey (n = 98) and follow-up interviews (n = 19), we explored the value players place on reporting, their desired outcomes, and their expectations that these outcomes will be achieved. Our findings revealed that reporting is motivated by both altruistic and retributive factors, with players seeking short-term revenge while also looking to foster an improved long-term community. Yet, players felt that reporting may not always meet these goals, with belief in the system being mediated by factors such as developer reputation, reporting transparency, and alignment with the community. By understanding the value and expectancy of reporting systems, we discuss their implications on broader digital moderation and consider current and potential future designs of reporting systems.