Jul 24, 2023

Skin in the Game: Fake money, real stakes

Dave Benett/Getty Images

In some video games, the built-in financial system closely mirrors real-world economics. Researchers are looking to games like Everquest II draw conclusions about spending habits and more. Plus, Boppenheimer surpasses box office expectations.

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Skin in the Game

What video games can teach us about economic decision-making

by David Brancaccio

Jul 24, 2023

Researchers use some video games to learn about spending behavior and how players respond to economic crises.

A screenshot of EverQuest II. Dmitri Williams, a professor at the University of Southern California, said he uses that title and other video games to study real-world behavior.

Courtesy EverQuest II

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The team

David Brancaccio Host

Leanna Byrne Host, BBC

Kelly Silvera Executive Producer

Meredith Garretson Morbey Senior Producer

Alex Schroeder Producer

Erika Soderstrom Producer

Ariana Rosas Producer

Jordan Mangi Digital Producer

Jesson Duller Media Producer

Brian Allison Technical Director

Nick Esposito Media Producer

James Graham Producer, BBC

Jo Critcher Producer, BBC

Olie D'Albertanson Producer, BBC

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