Games—whether digital, tabletop, or traditional—are designed 58WIN to entertain, challenge, and immerse us. But while graphics, gameplay, and storylines are important, one factor has a deeper psychological impact on our enjoyment: the feeling of control. When players feel in control of their decisions, actions, and outcomes, games become significantly more enjoyable, rewarding, and meaningful.
From casual mobile games to intense eSports, control fosters a sense of agency, ownership, and engagement. In this article, we explore why games become more fun when you feel in control, how different games offer that control, and how you can cultivate it as a player.