Behavioral dedication, constraint or obligation? A tripartite model of active participation in multiplayer online battle arena game community

Purpose: Active participation is critical to the survival and development of the multiplayer online battle arena (MOBA) game community. However, this issue has not received much attention in the information systems literature. To address this issue, we develop a tripartite model that accounts for the roles of behavioral dedication, constraint, obligation mechanisms on active participation in the MOBA community. Design/methodology/approach: The research model is empirically validated by online survey data among 971 users of a popular MOBA community. Findings: The results show that perceived enjoyment, perceived escapism, and affective commitment are key behavioral dedication factors, which further promote active participation in the MOBA community. In addition, past investment, self-efficacy for change, and calculative commitment are important behavioral constraint factors, which ultimately influence active participation in the MOBA community. Finally, subjective norm, group norm, social identity, and normative commitment are influential behavioral obligation factors, which in turn facilitate active participation in the MOBA community. Originality/value: This study contributes to the theoretical understanding of active participation in the MOBA community and offers practical guidance for promoting active participation in the community.