Blog #5 Why We Play?

In the article "Why We Play" and in the video with Jane McGonigal, they both touched on 3 things that were both in the same of each other. First in the article, one reason being is Challenge and Mastery, which motivates us towards success which we see as also possible (maybe far fetched) but real life instances. But Jane addresses this point as just working hard and continuing to try to over come obstacles. One wants to be able to pass a level lets say in a game, so they practice this over and over until they get it. Making 'gamers' good problem solvers. Another one would be Goals, Challenges, and Rewards, in games we get positive feedback or some kind of benefiting reward by accomplishing something, which again is another motivation for us to do good in a game so we can receive this positive feedback or reward that might give a boost in the future. Jane explained this in the video by saying that with the knowledge that one is possible to achieve a such goal, it makes one keep going and not give up and reach the goal. Similar to the first reason.
Lastly, there is also personal empowerment, for almost everyone, you feel achieved when you reach your goal, or beat your personal best, or even just finish. It's a feeling many enjoy and strive for when they play a game. Likewise, Jane explains that it is making people more optimistic when they look at a challenge, and strive/ work to over come this challenge for that feeling of accomplishment.