P2E is a new form of online gaming. It allows people to earn money through gaming where they can receive tradeable in-game currencies/non-fungible tokens (NFTs), or by upgrading and selling their NFTs. Research suggests that this form of gaming has some characteristics similar to gambling, which may increase the risk of financial harms.
In this study, the researchers examined the characteristics of adults who engaged in P2E gaming. They found that engaging in P2E gaming was associated with a higher risk of problem gambling, but not with a higher risk of internet gaming disorder. Engaging in P2E gaming was associated with an increased likelihood to own and invest in NFTs and crypto-currencies. Also, people who played P2E games were more impulsive and more likely to be extrinsically motivated (i.e., playing games to obtain rewards). There may be a need for new regulations and public health messaging about the risks and harms associated with P2E gaming.
