Rank Symbols and Player Behavior: An Analysis of MOBA Game Motivation Based on Social Identity and Social Comparison

Since the early 2000s, MOBA (Multiplayer Online Battle Arena) games have gradually become one of the mainstream types in the global game market. This study explores how the ranking system in MOBA games, such as "Honor of Kings", drives players' long-term participation and behavior through symbolic effects, especially in the game motivation, social behavior, and its impact on the self-identity of high-ranking players. This study uses semi-structured interviews to explore how the ranking system of "Honor of Kings" drives players' behavior as a symbol. The study shows that although high-ranking players believe that the sense of achievement brought by the ranking itself gradually weakens over time, the ranking, as a symbolic symbol, continues to drive players' participation. Through the analysis of players' goal setting, social comparison, and identity, this paper reveals how the ranking system drives players' behavior as a goal and strengthens players' self-cognition and social status through social identity and social comparison. Future game design should optimize ranking systems to balance competitiveness with entertainment, ensuring a healthy gaming environment.