Personalized Matchmaking Restrictions for Reduced Exposure to Toxicity: Preliminary Insights from an Interview Study

Abstract

Toxicity is ubiquitous in online multiplayer games and difficult to combat. There is increasing interest in novel ways to decrease toxicity and allow players to prevent exposure to toxicity. In this work-in-progress, we present the concept of personalized matchmaking restrictions in online games, allowing players to customize with whom they are matched. We developed interactive mockups, conducted a study where participants (n = 11) could explore the prototypes followed by interviews, and conducted a preliminary analysis. We found that participants were quite positive about the system, with most highlighting that they would be willing to use it. However, they also noted potential concerns like effects on matchmaking and the risk of segmenting the player base. Our findings will be useful for creating future personalized matchmaking restrictions systems, which can help prevent exposure to toxicity and thus combat harm.