Interplay between Media and Player Engagement: A Study of Media’s Effect on the World of Warcraft Gaming Experience

In the dynamic realm of online gaming, sustaining player engagement and immersion within a virtual environment is paramount for both the player community and game developers. World of Warcraft (WoW), a prominent massively multiplayer online role-playing game (MMORPG), has experienced considerable evolution since its inception in 2004. As gaming technologies advance and player expectations shift, a variety of media platforms, such as forums, social networks, and streaming services, have surfaced, playing a pivotal role in augmenting the WoW gaming experience. This study delves into the impact of different versions of WoW on the players' content experience, focusing on how these media platforms influence player engagement, communication strategies, and problem-solving approaches. Employing qualitative research methods, particularly in-depth interviews, this paper weaves a comprehensive narrative that sheds light on the intersection of technological evolution and gaming experiences. Our findings indicate that the specific version of WoW plays a critical role in shaping player interactions and problem-solving methods. The Classic WoW iteration fosters a sense of community and interaction, necessitating collaboration and the use of external resources. In contrast, Modern WoW has streamlined gameplay mechanics, thereby reducing the emphasis on collaborative efforts and the role of community within the game. This research underscores the fluid nature of social dynamics within the game, evolving in response to the changing preferences and expectations of the player base.