Zerging newbs: conflict tactics for MMORGP forums

Abstract

"Just like with face-to-face conversations, the discussions that occur online can take a wrong turn and spiral into a conflict. The study utilized content analysis methods on computer-mediated talk via World of Warcraft forums. The research focuses on the verbal tactics used by players for avoidance, cooperation and competition conflict management styles. The results of the study showed that in the observed forum the outcome of the conversations that contain elements of conflict could not be foreseen through the use of verbal tactics that represent certain conflict management behavior. The duality of the forum was examined with the use of structuration theory. Some of the rules and resources that contributed to the understanding of the observed community were need for identification, use of proper grammar and spelling, and experience level. While replying to the posts, forum members focused on responding to the user, not just the question posted. Thus, the identifiable features (e.g., avatar's level) were referenced. The appropriation of players' experience as a credibility resource was apparent in the comments when one's game skills and knowledge were challenged"--Leaf iii