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Population Collapse in Digital Ecosystems (Gaming): Patterns, Causes, and Recovery Strategies

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  • Bakreski, Filip

Abstract

This research paper examines the phenomenon of population collapse in digital gaming ecosystems from 2010 to 2024. Through analysis of player statistics, developer communications, community sentiment, and economic factors, we identify common patterns and causal mechanisms of rapid player base decline. Using case studies of major titles including World of Warcraft, Fortnite, Anthem, and Fallout 76, alongside theoretical frameworks from network economics and systems dynamics, we explore how and why gaming populations rise, fall, and occasionally recover. The research reveals key collapse triggers—content droughts, poor management, monetization shifts, technical issues, and competitive pressure—while highlighting successful prevention strategies such as consistent content delivery, transparent communication, and technical stability. This paper contributes to understanding digital ecosystem sustainability with implications for game developers, community managers, and digital platform operators.

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  • Bakreski, Filip, 2025. "Population Collapse in Digital Ecosystems (Gaming): Patterns, Causes, and Recovery Strategies," OSF Preprints 56rvh_v1, Center for Open Science.
    • Handle: RePEc:osf:osfxxx:56rvh_v1
    DOI: 10.31219/osf.io/56rvh_v1
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    References listed on IDEAS

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    1. Xiaoxiao Zhou & Yuki Inoue, 2025. "Innovation in Platform Ecosystems: Roles of Complementors’ Experiential Knowledge and Community Engagement as an External Knowledge Source," Sustainability, MDPI, vol. 17(5), pages 1-24, March.
    2. Michael L. Katz & Carl Shapiro, 1994. "Systems Competition and Network Effects," Journal of Economic Perspectives, American Economic Association, vol. 8(2), pages 93-115, Spring.
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