Transforming Interaction: The Behavioral Effects of Communication Technology in Online Gaming

The rapid advancement of communication technology has transformed interactions within online gaming environments. This study investigates the behavioral effects of communication technology in online gaming, focusing on how it shapes social interactions, player engagement, and potential addictive behaviors. Data were collected from 427 respondents, with the majority residing in Jakarta, followed by other major cities such as Bandung, Surabaya, and Medan. A stratified random sampling method was used to ensure diverse representation. The study employed structural equation modeling (SEM) to analyze the relationships between key variables. The results indicate that enhanced communication technology fosters stronger social bonds among players, improving teamwork and collaboration . However, excessive reliance on online gaming communication is associated with increased gaming addiction tendencies, particularly among younger players. Additionally, behavioral traces were found to be predictive of social interaction quality, supporting prior research on affiliation recognition in gaming environments. These findings highlight the dual nature of communication technology in online gaming, offering both social benefits and potential risks. The study contributes to the ongoing discourse on digital interaction and gaming behavior, emphasizing the need for balanced gaming habits to mitigate addiction risks