In an RPG, you pick your playable character (PC) and your non-playable character (NPC). Sometimes, you might regret those choices later. Save-scumming is a practice that allows a player to undo the effects of their choices. Save-scumming is the practice of reloading a checkpoint or save state in a game. Players do this before a decision that affects the game’s outcome. If they don’t like the result, they can try again.
Some say save-scumming helps players avoid their character’s permanent death (Schules et al., 2018). Others view it as a means to achieve specific goals or outcomes within the game. They think it won’t cause major or long-term problems (Handley, 2021; Bugnar & Persson, 2021). The debate echoes broader gaming trends, where players seek control over outcomes, much like bettors analyzing competitive live odds to tilt the chances in their favor. Save-scumming is a hot topic among players now. With Baldur’s Gate 3 (Larian Studios, 2023) and Disco Elysium (ZA/UM, 2019), interest is rising. Some articles even suggest that save-scumming is a “better” RPG strategy (Clark, 2023).
There is little research on save-scumming from a psychological perspective. The results are not precise. Some studies suggest that save-scumming may alter player flow and immersion. Bugnar & Persson, 2021; Cowley et al., 2008). Save-scumming may provide a clearer view of what drives players in games. It touches on both intrinsic and extrinsic motivations.
Gaming is a fun activity that sparks a strong desire to play. This motivation comes from a genuine interest in and enjoyment of the game itself (Guay et al., 2000). Extrinsic motivation is when you engage in an activity for an outside reward. This differs from intrinsic motivation, which originates from within (Ryan & Deci, 2000).
Save-scumming provides an interesting conundrum when considering the role of motivation in gaming. Some players are driven by a genuine love for the game and the enjoyment it brings. Yet, save-scumming reveals that both external rewards and enjoyment can motivate players.
Some players use save-scumming to guide the story. This helps them connect with their favorite NPCs. As a result, it boosts their enjoyment of the game. Save-scumming can also help players get items or rewards that aren’t part of the story. These rewards often offer external validation and fit with extrinsic motivations. For example, taking down a strong opponent that drops valuable loot could take a few tries. If the chance of winning is low, a player can use save-scumming. It allows them to start the battle over from the beginning. They can avoid losing progress. They can also increase their chances by changing their gear or trying a new method.
There’s more to how gamers use save-scumming. Players who save-scum during NPC dialogue often have different goals than those who do it in battles. Ultimately, save-scumming is of academic interest as a psychological phenomenon.
Save-scumming primarily affects the individual player, rather than others. Some writers have a negative view of save-scumming (Lenzini, 2023; Evizaer, 2012). This brings up two questions: What motivates this behavior? And why does it annoy others? Why do gamers react negatively to those who save-scum? Does this show how we view player motivations?
Or do these opinions point to a deeper issue within gamer culture? We urge future studies on digital behavior. This can help us adapt to video game choice mechanics. It’s also essential to understand how others see these choices.
Conclusion
Save-scumming is a habit that sparks debate. It offers crucial insights into why players act as they do. It also shows how they perceive themselves as being in control. Save-scumming demonstrates a desire for personal satisfaction and a focus on game rewards. It may be driven by narrative goals or the desire for rewards.
The mixed reactions from gamers show deeper problems. They touch on control, fairness, and what it means to play authentically. As choice-driven games become more complex, we can learn a great deal by studying behaviors like save-scumming. It helps us understand how people make decisions and form their experiences in digital settings. It also shows how these worlds affect player psychology.
