Massively Multiplayer Online Role-Playing Games

"The author delves into the psychology of those who inhabit the game universe, sometimes addicted to it, and explains the unique cultures, economies, moral codes, and slang used in it. The book explains how the games are built, describes the spin-offs that players create, and looks at the future of MMORPGs as they evolve into educational, scientific, and business tools." "Based on hundreds of interviews, the work explores the reasons people are attracted to and addicted to these games. It also surveys many existing and upcoming games. An appendix lists online addiction organizations and MMORPG information sites."--Jacket.