Towards Handicapping for Online Competitive Video Games: A Taxonomical Review of Intervention Studies

Inappropriate challenge levels—due to mixed-ability matchmaking—can result in a playerbase-diminishing feedback effect in online competitive video games. Handicapping mechanisms, which have proven effective in other domains of play, remain largely under-utilised in this context. Considering an assumed preference for authentic gameplay in online play experiences, we propose a taxonomy for handicapping mechanisms based on their representation of non-handicapped gameplay conditions. We subsequently review handicapping interventions in the literature. The review finds that handicapping mechanisms are effective at balancing outcomes for mixed-ability sets of players in competitive video games and do not diminish enjoyment. Indeed, there is a likelihood of enhancing enjoyment, especially for lower-ability players. Application of the taxonomy reveals a key form of handicapping has been overlooked and we offer potential explanations for this gap. Additionally, we outline a vision for how the types of handicapping mechanism can facilitate graduated access into online competitive games.