Determinants of players’ stickiness in online sports simulation games: Evidence from China

Leveraging uses and gratification theory, we explored the key determinants of players’ stickiness in online sports simulation games (OSSG). We collected data in China through an online survey and used structural equation modeling to test the hypotheses. The results revealed that gratification of both enjoyment and achievement needs were key antecedents to players’ stickiness in OSSG, and the role of enjoyment was stronger than that of achievement. Players’ sports knowledge and the fantasy level of OSSG had a significant positive impact on gratification of both needs, whereas players’ fanship and novelty level of OSSG had a significant positive influence on enjoyment need gratification. This study contributes to e-sports research by uncovering the motivations for stickiness in OSSG and by extending uses and gratification theory in e-sports context.