15/05/2026
Why do players finish games with inventories full of unused items? This article explores the psychology and design behind item hoarding, from uncertainty and loss aversion to system-driven behaviours that discourage usage. It breaks down why this happens and how better design can fix it, offering practical strategies to create more engaging and coherent gameplay where resources are used meaningfully instead of saved indefinitely.
Why do players finish games with inventories full of unused items? This article explores the psychology and design behind item hoarding, from uncertainty and loss aversion to system-driven behaviou…