Ever wondered how the virtual worlds we immerse ourselves in can shape our minds and behaviors? Join us this as week while we navigate the labyrinthine connections between psychology and gaming. We're returning from a hiatus with renewed vigor, and despite a few production snags, we're here to unpack the psychological intricacies that make MMOs like Final Fantasy XIV a phenomenon for all types of players. From crafting die-hards to PvP enthusiasts, we dissect what makes these gaming experiences tick and how they can, for better or worse, impact your mental wellness. 

This time around, we're digging into the origins and allure of the Final Fantasy series, especially for those who might be taking their first steps into its rich lore. Jenny shares her latest Witcher tales, showcasing a gameplay shift that mirrors our own transitions in life and creative work. Yes, even a seasoned side-quester can change their stripes. We also toss around insights on game design, contrasting the early, linear narratives of yesteryear with today's more guided storytelling exemplified by Final Fantasy X. And for those intrigued by the gaming zeitgeist, we touch on current controversies and the fine line between inspiration and plagiarism in game development.

As we wrap up, we extend a heartfelt invitation to listeners to join the AIE community for some collective Final Fantasy fun. It's a heartfelt 'thank you' to those who've been with us on this podcasting odyssey, and we're excited to reveal our new membership tiers on the Doctor Gameology YouTube channel, promising even more rich content and resources for our fellow gaming aficionados. So, whether you're a JRPG veteran or a newcomer eager to explore, we've got a treasure trove of discussions that will resonate with every player looking for that deeper connection between the games we love and the lives we lead.

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Discover the profound legacy of Final Fantasy VII as we journey into the heart of its groundbreaking narrative and innovations that shaped the gaming industry. This week on the Gaming Persona podcast, we dissect the complex themes and emotional depth of a game that goes beyond entertainment, exploring the moral dilemmas faced by its characters and the psychological intricacies that make Cloud Strife an unforgettable protagonist. With nostalgia and new perspectives, we connect the dots between Final Fantasy VII's success and the Western embrace of Japanese media, revealing how this epic tale left an indelible mark on RPGs and gamers alike.

Amidst the backdrop of Midgar and the Lifestream, we confront the ethical questions raised by eco-terrorism and corporate dominance in a world where magic and technology collide. Delve into the aesthetic brilliance and gameplay mechanics that have captivated audiences for decades, from materia mastery to the enduring impact of Cloud's iconic sword. As Gene and I reflect on playing these games, we invite listeners to reflect on their personal gaming journeys and the power of shared experiences with loved ones through titles like Final Fantasy 7 Remake.

Wrapping up this epic saga, we cast an eye to the future, challenging our fellow gamers to join us in embracing environmental consciousness in our digital and real-world quests. Join our vibrant community as we celebrate the monumental influence of Final Fantasy VII, and consider how its storytelling and character development continue to push the boundaries of what video games can achieve. Whether you're a seasoned fan or a newcomer to the series, this episode is an invitation to explore the depth and artistry of a game that forever changed the landscape of gaming.

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This week, we're uncovering the layers of Final Fantasy, the iconic gaming series, revealing not just its influence on the industry but also its psychological tapestry that weaves into the fabric of our daily lives. 

Navigating the rich history of Japanese RPGs, we stroll down memory lane with Dragon Quest and Final Fantasy, reminiscing about their classic mechanics and the evolution of their narratives. These games didn't just entertain; they provided a framework for personal growth and understanding, meshing perfectly with the psychological concepts that fascinate us so deeply. And it doesn't stop at nostalgia; we delve into "Against the Storm," a game that masterfully combines strategy with time management, challenging players to thrive in a demanding, ever-changing world.

But our exploration is more than reminiscence and gaming tactics—it's a call to academia. We shine a spotlight on the scant research covering the newer Final Fantasy titles, especially the MMOs, and their nuanced portrayal of gender roles, encouraging a closer look at their cultural significance. As we bid you farewell until next week, we empower you to join the ranks of adventurers in the Final Fantasy universe, assuring newcomers and veterans alike that their journey will be as accessible as it is enchanting.

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The loss of a pet can pierce the heart with a sorrow as deep and raw as any we experience in our lives. Today, we dedicate our heartfelt episode to Gene's cat, Illyria, and embark on an emotional exploration of the profound connections we forge with our video game pets. We open up about our own experiences of pet loss, sharing those vulnerable moments that remind us of the joy and sorrow our animal companions bring into our lives, both in reality and within the pixelated worlds we inhabit.

As we journey through the nostalgia of '90s virtual pet crazes and into the immersive companionship provided by modern games, we reflect on how these pixelated companions can teach us responsibility and offer genuine companionship. Jenny and I swap stories of our favorite in-game pets and mounts, like those in Final Fantasy 14, revealing just how much these digital friends enhance our gaming experiences. The conversation also touches on the excitement of community achievements and how in-game pets can mirror the importance of real-life furry friends.

We wrap up with a dive into the psychology that underpins our treasured virtual pets and their influence on our gaming behaviors, extending playtime and enriching our digital personas. As Jenny anticipates the addition of a dog companion to her gaming setup, we touch on the importance of mindful gaming, informed by recent research into the intricate relationship between players and their in-game pets. To close, I share a tender moment about my cat, Lexicon, and invite listeners to join our inclusive gaming community, reminding us all to cherish the companions that walk, trot, and scamper beside us in life's epic quest.

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This episode is a heartfelt journey through personal updates and gaming triumphs, as we review our "gaming persona" for a candid review of 2023. We're thanking listeners and Patreon supporters like you for your incredible support, and we're thrilled to reinvest that back into the podcast, bringing you richer and more engaging content. 

It's been a year sprinkled with memories like confetti at PAX East, hands-on time with promising titles like Baldur's Gate III, and our amazing experiences at Megacon 2023, where I had the honor of contributing to several panels. We're bubbling with excitement for the future, from my book publishing dreams slated for 2024 to our upcoming gaming ventures, including diving into Magic: The Gathering's newest sets. 

We also look to the future with anticipation for titanic titles like Silent Hill 2 and Persona 3, stirring in us a blend of nostalgia and exhilaration. We're dissecting game design decisions, from control customization to the weighty moral choices in Baldur's Gate 3. We're also speculating about the future, eyeing upcoming releases like Judas and the entwining of Magic: The Gathering with storied video game franchises. Wrapping things up, we're buzzing to share that more weekly episodes are coming your way in 2024, ensuring our gaming conversations keep flowing. Stick with us, and let's press play on the next level of our gaming journey together.

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Ever grappled with your conscience during a game? This episode sees Gene and Doc recounting our latest gaming escapades, from the moral crossroads of "Abomination" to the celebrated "Baldur's Gate 3." Discover how board games can make you question your values and witness the transformation of a video game from its humble beginnings to a Game of the Year phenomenon. We share tales from the trenches of "Baldur's Gate," reminiscing about our D&D-inspired adventures, and discuss how these experiences have shaped our gaming personas.

Prepare to be spellbound as we weave a narrative that links the enchantment of Dungeons & Dragons to the real-world magic of personal growth and professional development. I reveal a D&D encounter that could have spelled doom but for a timely Counterspell, drawing a parallel with my journey as an online educator mastering digital tools. We invite you to find your own secret quests in life, just as you might in a game by speaking with animals or deploying unique abilities, and I'll share my fresh start with Final Fantasy XIV, exploring its narrative depths alongside insights from my literary work, 'The Gamer's Journey.'

The excitement peaks as we dissect the latest "Final Fantasy VII Rebirth" trailer, delving into the heart-stopping implications for characters like Zack and Aerith, and what their altered fates mean for our heroes. We analyze the psychological undercurrents and explore how the game's themes echo the struggles of mental health and self-awareness. Wrapping up, we speculate on the combat system updates and how every character—from Cloud to Kate Sith—might offer a new level of engagement. Join Gene and me for a profound exploration of games, strategy, and the evolution of the self.

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When the world of gaming collides with the delicate dance of relationships, where do you stand? That's the question Jenny Lebron and Dr. Gameology tackle as we dissect the "Me or the PS5" trend sweeping through TikTok in 2023. This episode isn't just about the memes; it's an eye-opener on how gaming fits into our lives and relationships. We'll share personal stories that resonate with anyone trying to juggle a love for gaming with the demands of a bustling life. Through the lens of Jenny's photography schedule and Doc's gaming adventures, including an intense affair with Elden Ring, we navigate the complexities of modern-day hobby balancing.

The conversation gets even richer as we discuss the fine line between a gaming passion and the responsibilities of personal relationships. Ever felt torn between your console and a holiday family gathering? I sure have, and you'll hear all about my Halloween family dilemma during some crucial academic deadlines. We don't just talk about gaming, though; we dive into the cognitive benefits of this beloved hobby and how it stands up against other pastimes. With insights on fostering understanding and compromise in our personal connections, this episode promises to leave you with a new appreciation for diversifying your sources of enjoyment and the importance of nurturing those crucial social bonds. Whether you're a hardcore gamer or the partner on the other side of the screen, join Jenny and me for a candid look at striking the perfect balance.

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Is violence in video games, especially Call of Duty, instigating aggression in real life? Your hosts Dr. Gameology, Jenny Lebron, and Gene Wong unwrap this age-old debate in an absolutely thrilling episode of The Gaming Persona podcast. We'll be sharing our personal encounters with not just Call of Duty, but also our gaming adventures with Alan Wake 2 and Final Fantasy 14. 

Have you ever wondered about the evolution of Call of Duty over the last two decades? It's time to satisfy your curiosity as we traverse the entire trajectory of this legendary game from its realistic beginnings to its current otherworldly elements. We're going to delve into the celebrity engagements in the franchise, discuss the spin-off game, Call of Duty Zombies, and even drop hints about talking about the iconic game Doom in our future episodes. 

As we conclude our journey, we'll examine the impact of video games on society at large. We'll be debunking the common myth that violent video games breed violent behavior by drawing comparisons with violence in TV shows and movies. Also, we'll be looking at the popular game Overwatch, the variety it offers, and our experiences with the inviting AIE gaming community. Let's embark on this entertaining and enlightening expedition together!

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The magic number is three, as we explore the significance of threes in the gaming universe! Join us, your hosts Dr. Gameology, Jenny Lebron, and Gene Wong, as we mark our triumphant third anniversary with a vibrant discussion about our gaming journeys, the power of the number three in video games, and our top picks for the third installments in popular game series. From Janie’s passion for the board games Carcassonne and Dominion, to our shared experiences with Magic: The Gathering, we promise you a nostalgic trip down memory lane.

What does Magic: The Gathering have in common with early game-based gambling? Immerse yourself in our conversation as we navigate our way through this fascinating history. Then, buckle up for a thrilling debate on the best third games in popular series - Metroid and Super Mario 3. We can't wait to share our cherished memories and experiences with these classic games. To sweeten the pot, we've thrown in a lively discussion about creating character profiles in video games and the challenges that come with editing game footage. 

We round off this episode with a heartfelt thank you to our listeners for their ongoing support and feedback.  We've had an incredible journey so far, and we are excited about the road ahead. So, until next week, keep gaming! And remember, three is the magic number as we continue to explore the gaming world together!

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Are you ready to venture into the hero's journey of the modern gamer? This week, Dr. Gameology is joined by both cohosts, Jenny Lebron and Gene Wong, as they navigate through the exhilarating world of gaming. We tackle the fascinating role of AI in creating immersive gaming experiences and the concept of decision fatigue in gaming. Not forgetting a riveting tour of the Dungeons and Dragons realm and the latest gaming trends. 

Ever pondered over the thrilling world of competitive gaming and the emotional swings it comes with? Well, we've got you covered. Together, we explore the potential of gaming tournaments as a lucrative venture while spotlighting mega-hits like Magic The Gathering and Super Smash Brothers. 

Moving on, we challenge the conventional notion of teenage careers to consider professional gaming. Drawing parallels between traditional sports and video games, we provide insights for parents on engaging with their child's interests. We discuss the rising societal acceptance of eSports and its revolutionary impact on education. Moreover, we spotlight the use of video games in teaching counseling theories. As we conclude, we address the elephant in the room, gaming addiction, emphasizing mindfulness, balance, and the importance of human connection. So buckle up and join us on this thrilling journey through the modern gaming landscape.

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Picture this: you're playing a classic video game on your new console, the familiar worlds and characters rendered in stunning modern graphics, the original gameplay intact. But how do these old games come to life in our modern systems? Robin Lavallée, CEO of Implicit Conversions, takes us behind the scenes of game preservation and porting in this episode. With experiences spanning from the PSP to Ubisoft, Robin's gaming wisdom is as broad as it is deep.

Think back to your favorite old games, the features that made them unique, the bugs that became features, and the feel of the controls in your hands. Now imagine bringing those games to a modern audience without losing any of their charm. Robin guides us through this intricate process, from preserving unique bugs in Final Fantasy VII to adapting control systems for new platforms. We dig into the art of choosing games for porting, and the challenges of finding testers who aren't familiar with the original game.

But it doesn't stop there. Robin also gives us a peek into the world of Implicit Conversions, a company dedicated to keeping classic games alive for the current generation of gamers. We explore the joy of playing old games on new systems, and the importance of making them not just playable, but fun. So, join us on this journey through the heart of game development and preservation, and rediscover the magic of your favorite games.

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Thanks for Listening, and Continue The Journey!

Ready for an adventure through the digital realms of video games with a psychological twist? Join us as we unveil the concept of the Shadow Self lurking in our favorite games, and we promise it won't be your typical podcast episode. We're bringing our personal experiences to the table, with Jenny sharing how she navigated the terrors of Dead by Daylight and Final Fantasy 14, and Gene revealing his battles in Silent Hill and Resident Evil 4. We're not just talking games here, but the hero's journeys we've embarked upon, unearthing the mysteries of our own Shadow Selves.

You might be wondering, what does Elden Ring or Breath of the Wild have to do with our daily fears and vulnerabilities? Well, imagine utilizing our gaming strategies to overcome those very real challenges. We share how we've taken on our Shadow Selves, the confrontations we've faced, and the boundaries we've learned to set. This isn't just about conquering digital realms but about embracing the growth and self-discovery that comes with it.

And yes, we're going to address the elephant in the room - the Shadow Self can be downright scary. But, what if we told you that embracing it could be a powerful tool for self-empowerment? As we wrap up this episode, we'll discuss how acknowledging our shortcomings has shaped our gaming experiences and impacted our productivity. We'll leave you with a thought on self-validation and a teaser for our next digital quest. So, gear up and join us on this journey to confront your Shadow Self, both in the digital and real world.

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Strap on your headsets and grab your controllers, we're venturing into the fascinating realm of gamer sleep cycles! Have you ever wondered why we gamers are stereotypically associated with late-night marathons? Or how that impacts our brain's reward system? This week, we're turning off our screens and delving into this intriguing subject, sharing personal gaming updates and the hilarious excuses we make to keep gaming—no matter what.

We channel our inner scientists, exploring the latest research on adult sleep habits in the gaming community. We also debunk some game-changing myths about sleep and share some innovative sleep apps and systems that can improve your mental wellness. And for those Magic: The Gathering and Final Fantasy fans, be prepared for an exciting discussion about the upcoming crossover! The conversation gets more intense as we highlight gaming as a skill and its connection to developmental psychology.

But we don't stop at research; we share our personal experiences too. From strategies to cope with insomnia, to our individual bedtime routines—we're laying it all on the table. Hear about Jean's recent injury that's keeping him away from fighting games and learn how we manage the effects of blue light from gaming devices on our sleep. We wrap up with the importance of a healthy sleep schedule, especially for us gamers, and why consulting a primary care physician is vital when dealing with insomnia. Consider this your ultimate guide to understanding sleep patterns and its impact on your gaming and overall wellness!

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Uncover the extraordinary influence of video games on our lives, relationships, and even our culture with Stanley Pierre-Louis, CEO and President of the Entertainment Software Association. Stanley brings us exclusive insights from the ESA’s 2023 report, revealing fascinating data on video gaming trends and their impact on business and entertainment. With a staggering 65% of people immersed in games, we delve into the expanding role of video games in our daily lives, the plethora of gaming genres, and the common misconceptions that surround this dynamic industry.

Download the Report Here

Immerse yourself in our discussion on the cross-over of mobile and console gaming, the shift in social interactions facilitated by games, and how gaming has the power to create lasting and meaningful relationships. We also delve into the intriguing world of video games in education, their potential for emotional development, cultural sensitivity, and fostering collaboration. The fascinating conversation continues as we also tackle the use of the age rating system by parents and caregivers to make informed decisions about their children's gaming habits.

Join us as we explore the diverse benefits and potentials of gaming – from healing and treatment to enhancing emotional intelligence and cultural sensitivity. We examine the findings of the Entertainment Software Association's 2023 report, discussing the data-driven impacts of the video game industry on various facets of our lives. We invite you all to game on with us in this enlightening episode, where we not only celebrate the joy of gaming but also appreciate its power to affect our lives and relationships. So press play, and let's embark on this exciting journey together!

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Thanks for Listening, and Continue The Journey!

Can your gaming experience be affected by your personal insecurities? Have you ever pondered the psychological implications behind your in-game choices? This episode addresses the impact of perfectionism and imposter syndrome on gamers, probing deep psychological layers of personal quests, from the gallant worlds of Magic the Gathering to the intricate narratives of Final Fantasy 16.

We'll journey through the mental undercurrents that shape each player's decision, such as class selection, and how these choices reflect their real-life struggles. Imposter syndrome often leads to an avoidance of difficult tasks, pushing individuals to seek solace in video games. These feelings of inadequacy can even influence game masters, altering their ability to execute complex stories. Also, we'll navigate the perilous waters of microtransactions in games like Counter-Strike and Magic the Gathering Arena, their impact on those with imposter syndrome, and the dangerous obsession with perfection they foster.

This episode is not just a discussion; it's an exploration of our human nature, a mirror reflecting our fears, doubts, and aspirations. We share our personal experiences, shedding light on the transformation of self-doubt into hope. We'll decode the psychology of accomplishment, unpacking the mentality of perfectionism and helping you navigate the unreal constructs of perfectionism and imposter syndrome. Ready to level up your understanding of gaming psychology? Game on!

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Brace yourselves for another thrilling journey into the world of gaming as Jenny, Gene, and Dr. Gameology make a grand return to The Gaming Persona! We spill the beans on our latest escapades - Jenny's transition to a new home, exhilarating gaming sessions, mastering Lord of the Rings, Magic the Gathering, and the Alien board game. Not to mention the gripping gameplay of Final Fantasy 16. Gene gives the lowdown on the gaming mechanics and how the real thrill starts with the new game plus - guaranteeing an engaging gaming experience like never before!

We're not just concerned with gaming. We reminisce about our podcast journey of three years, revealing our rationale for the reboot and how we've evolved. Jenny shares her love-based approach to gaming and life, while Gene lends his unique perspective on the games we've covered over the years. As we wander into philosophical territory, we ponder the butterfly effect and how Gaming Persona has had a profound influence on our lives.

In this episode, we also dig into how our love for gaming has propelled us professionally. We discuss the connection between the Gaming Persona podcast and our professional areas, all while not demonizing gaming. Hear about my recent promotion as the president of the International Gambling Counselor Certification Board and the newfound opportunities it presents. We delve into the mythic element of the podcast, the power of metaphors, and how the hero's journey can lead to a better understanding of ourselves. As a sweet bonus, we also anticipate the National Conference for Problem Gambling happening in Washington DC. So, get ready for an exciting journey through the gaming universe!

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Ever wondered how our gaming memories can influence our lifespan? Tune in as we take you on a journey through the riveting world of video games. We discuss our recent encounters like Overwatch 2, Legends of Runeterra, Darkest Dungeon 2, and Diablo 4, and ponder the crucial factors of a successful game experience. Reflecting on our gaming memories, we share how nostalgia can significantly impact a game’s longevity.

Get ready to explore the profound influence video games exert on our lives. We talk about the life lessons they provide, the innovative ways they gamify experiences, and how they teach us to confront success and failure. Listen as we delve into how games inspire resilience and offer a judgment-free environment to confront challenges. Passion is the driving force behind our gaming experiences, and we introduce a new three-tiered approach to categorize these experiences. 

In the concluding part of our conversation, we unearth our most memorable gaming moments and triumphs. We reminisce about achievements, moments of hope, and the deep bonds formed over games. We also share how intricate knowledge of a game can contribute to the meaningful experiences that video games offer. As we wrap up, we reflect on how these memories inspire us in our daily adventures and keep us motivated. Come and discover gaming’s role beyond mere entertainment.

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Why don't games work when we're most excited to play them, and how do gaming communities recover from this disappointment? Those are the burning questions we tackle in this week's Gaming Persona podcast, where we share our experiences with the latest Lord of the Rings game, Gollum, and reminisce about the nostalgic 90's X-Wings from the book series and Nintendo 64 game, Rogue Squadron.

We don't just stop there, as we reflect on the impact of the zeitgeist, exploring how popular media like Game of Thrones can change conversations over time and examining the motivations behind gaming developers' choices. We also analyze how some studios have managed to redeem their games and how studio heads can make or break a game's success. Get ready for an in-depth discussion on the importance of allowing ourselves to make mistakes without the intense need for perfectionism.

As we dive into the darker side of gaming, we ponder the toxicity of some gaming communities and how this can deter newcomers from joining. Along with this, we explore the devastating impact of trauma and depression on our gaming lives, drawing on the example of Luke Skywalker. So hit play, and join us in our gaming community as we download the patch to continue the journey.

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This week, we're discussing the release of The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom. We'll be taking a deep dive into Hyrule and what we expect for this new edition of the BotW formula. 

Plus, we'll hear from Dr. Gameology about what it was like to restart playing both BotW and FFXIV games at the same time. Join us this week as we discuss the worlds of Hyrule versus Eorzea with The Gaming Persona!

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The latest episode of The Gaming Persona will discuss the positive mental health experience of playing The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild. We'll be talking about how this game encourages players to explore a wide-open world full of surprises and secrets, to take time away from the pressure of a linear narrative, and to appreciate the beauty and tranquility found in nature. We’ll also look at how the game's calming soundtrack helps to create a peaceful atmosphere for players to explore and relax. In addition, we'll be discussing how exploring a vast, open world can help relieve stress and anxiety while still providing challenging puzzles and battles that stimulate our mental acuity. Join us on this episode as we discover how The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild can positively influence our mental well-being!

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This week, we talk about the basic concepts which form Self-Determination Theory and apply them to video games. Motivation, competence, belonging, autonomy, mastery. What do video games do for you?

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This week, Dr. Gameology and crew return to the recording studio to talk about any random thing that comes to their mind.  They go everywhere from Star Wars to Resident Evil, and end up some how on Space Mountain. Come listen to the chaos and support the show!

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On this episode, we dive into the fascinating topic of guilds in gaming and how they can help create an engaging play experience. Important concepts like forming groups, conquering bigger challenges, or connecting with the social opportunities of endless virtual worlds, guilds can add something to the experience of any gamer and motivation style.

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If you would like to support the show and help us unlock additional possibilities for future episodes and projects, this can now be done through Patreon!

Subscribe on YouTube for more content on the Psychology of Gaming or to catch a Live Stream!
For more info, check out DrGameology.com!

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We have made it to Episode 100 of The Gaming Persona podcast! Join us while we celebrate the show's past success and future potential. 

The three hosts - Dr. Gameology / Dr. Daniel Kaufmann, Jenny Lebron, and Gene Wong - reflect on where the show started and where it is headed in the future. It’s a special edition of The Gaming Persona podcast that you don't want to miss!

Listen on: Apple Podcasts   Spotify

Support the show

If you would like to support the show and help us unlock additional possibilities for future episodes and projects, this can now be done through Patreon!

Subscribe on YouTube for more content on the Psychology of Gaming or to catch a Live Stream!
For more info, check out DrGameology.com!

More Links Here!

Thanks for Listening, and Continue The Journey!

This week, we’re talking about the three types of video game players: Casual, Mid-Core, and Hardcore. We explore the differences between these types of gamers, how it impacts their experience and more.  

Join Doc and Gene while they dive into the exciting world of video gaming! 

Listen on: Apple Podcasts   Spotify

Support the show

If you would like to support the show and help us unlock additional possibilities for future episodes and projects, this can now be done through Patreon!

Subscribe on YouTube for more content on the Psychology of Gaming or to catch a Live Stream!
For more info, check out DrGameology.com!

More Links Here!

Thanks for Listening, and Continue The Journey!