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Examining machine player behaviour: a qualitative exploration

Author: F. Husain, H.Wardle, T. Kenny, M. Balarajan & D. Collins Published: October 2013
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Summary

This report by NatCen Social Research examines how features of gambling machines affect player behaviour, based on observations and interviews with machine players in real-world settings.

Topics covered

  • factors influencing machine play behaviour
  • typology of different machine player types
  • policy implications for responsible gambling

Key findings

Machine play is influenced by a complex interplay of personal, environmental and machine factors. Players vary in their ability to maintain control, with some sticking to pre-set limits while others get drawn into extended play.
Machine features like lights, sounds and bonus rounds can act as strong "pull" factors encouraging continued play.

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