Bubble Theory: modes of social, narrative, and mechanical interconnectedness in persistent multiplayer games.

Game mechanics, narratives, and social network options all affect how players will interact in a persistent multiplayer space. Conceiving of the factors affecting an individual's ability to mesh with the play of others as a bubble around them, this theory lays out some important factors to consider when designing for persistent multiplayer interaction. The theory aims to improve design so that players will have better experiences, and games will better retain players' attention.

Cover image credit:
"Bubbles" by Stellajo1976 is licensed under CC BY 2.0