To maintain attention and engagement, video game designers often use techniques that exploit psychological vulnerability, such as so-called Dark Patterns. By definition, a Dark Pattern is an element deliberately added to a game to cause an unwanted negative experience for the player, while benefiting the game developer. There are different types of Dark Patterns, which can cause us to lose control over our time, money, relationships, and even our thinking.

Reflecting on the causes of addiction can help, above all, to understand one's own behavior and empower users to be the agents of change.