The effects of human-game interaction, network externalities, and motivations on players’ use of mobile casual games

The purpose of this paper is to empirically examine the factors that influence the acceptance and use of mobile casual games.

A theoretical model is proposed based on the theory of reasonable action, the uses and gratifications theory, the network externalities (NEs) paradigm and the human–computer interaction literature. An empirical study was conducted through an online survey of mobile casual gamers in Spain, using a convenience sample. The proposed model was tested by an analysis of the collected data through a structural equation model using the partial least squares method.

The results indicate that human–mobile game interaction and NEs have a significant indirect impact on intention to play (IP), through utilitarian, hedonic and relational motivations. In addition, the full mediation effect of attitude was found between these constructs and IP, which is a very important determinant of actual use.

This study is among the few that focuses on users’ acceptance of mobile games apps, the features of which differ significantly from personal computer and console games. It highlights the effects of human–game interaction and NEs on the adoption of mobile casual games. Hence, the study contributes to the theoretical and practical understanding of the factors that lead users to adopt an entertainment mobile application.