Extraction shooters often lead to tense encounters where betrayal is common. However, according to James 'Pigeon' Fielder, one of the few political scientists specializing in gaming, there are strategies to foster cooperation and avoid becoming a victim.
Fielder, whose background in the US military led him to design large-scale wargames, now applies political science theories to game worlds. He views games as 'fruit fly experiments' for understanding human behavior, noting that complex political phenomena can manifest rapidly in virtual environments like EVE Online.
His journey into gaming politics began when a student at the Air Force Academy asked if trust could be built in online games similarly to real life. Fielder's research revealed that games can effectively foster connection because the emotions they evoke are real, even if the scenarios are fictional. Roleplaying games, in particular, encourage players to adopt new perspectives and can instill empathy.
Building Trust in Games
Fielder suggests that for cooperation to occur in extraction shooters, the game's rules must support it. Games where the sole objective is to eliminate all other players, like early versions of PUBG, naturally discourage trust. In contrast, games like Arc Raiders, which have clearer cooperative elements and player communication cues, are more conducive to fostering teamwork.
When encountering other players, Fielder advises approaching without visible weapons. Demonstrating peaceful intent, perhaps through in-game emotes like outstretched hands, can signal that a player is not an immediate threat. "Look, my hands are empty, and it's very difficult for me to grab a weapon, even in a videogame," he explained.
Offering valuable items freely, without expecting immediate reciprocation, can also build trust. "I don't expect anything in return except let's not fight," Fielder stated. However, he cautioned that offering something too valuable might signal that the player has more to lose, potentially making them a target.
Gaming as an Inclusive Space
Despite the potential for cooperation, Fielder expressed concern about social divisions within the gaming community. He believes games should be inherently inclusive spaces where people can overcome differences and work towards shared objectives.
"In reality, one of the best places to overcome differences with people is a game," Fielder said. "You learn, you sit down to play, you work together to overcome an objective. Gaming should be the most inclusive space in the world."