"Of Course We Lost, We Have Teammates From...!": Using Autoethnography and Speculative Design to Address Race-Based Toxicity in DOTA 2
2023 (English)Independent thesis Advanced level (degree of Master (One Year)), 10 credits / 15 HE credits
Student thesis
Abstract [en]
This paper presents an autoethnography of the MOBA game DOTA 2, then performs speculative design based on that data to approach resolving online race-based toxicity within the game. Drawing from personal experiences and existing theories, this paper examines the game features which may exacerbate race-based toxicity in player interactions and proposes potential solutions to mitigate them. The optimal suggested strategies include the implementation of an auto-mute function, alterations to the commendation system, and the acceleration of gameplay pace. While the outcomes of these proposals remain speculative, they hold promise based on theoretical frameworks and the results from the author’s autoethnography. The paper highlights the need for further research to test and evaluate these ideas and suggests conducting comparative analyses with other MOBAs to gain insights into effective strategies for combating toxicity. Ultimately, the aim is to create a more positive and enjoyable gaming experience through mechanical changes to DOTA 2 while considering the deep complexities of the game’s culture and community.
Place, publisher, year, edition, pages
2023. , p. 53
Keywords [en]
DOTA 2, MOBA, race, toxicity, autoethnography, speculative design
National Category
Design
Identifiers
URN: urn:nbn:se:uu:diva-504503OAI: oai:DiVA.org:uu-504503DiVA, id: diva2:1767240
Subject / course
Game Design
Educational program
Master's Programme in Game Design, one year
Presentation
2023-05-30, Visby, 13:00 (English)
Supervisors
Examiners
2023-06-212023-06-132023-06-21Bibliographically approved