Complexity and Ethos in eSports

A Multidimensional Analysis of Teleological Objectives and Social Motivations

Abstract

The phenomenon of eSports, marked by its inherent complexity and multifaceted nature, resists simplification into basic formulas. This study examines eSports in its diverse forms of execution, as well as the underlying social motivations and teleological objectives. A purely heuristic reduction to simple patterns proves inadequate in light of the dynamic and variable nature of its determinants, characteristics, and expressions. These context factors, experiencing significant relevance feedback in gameplay, are not static but fluid in their relational structure. This flexibility and complexity of the constitutive elements of eSports lead to a polysemy that complicates a clear definition of its essence, underscoring the necessity of a comprehensive, multidimensional examination.

To speak of a singular, universally constituting ethos for eSports would be misleading. Instead, a proper analysis necessitates acknowledging the layered nature of eSports. Simple definitions of complex phenomena often reveal themselves as interest-driven constructions aiming to prioritise certain real aspects of a phenomenon. Therefore, this study advocates for a nuanced examination of eSports and its ethos, considering its inherent diversity and complexity.

This study's theoretic triangulation and hermeneutic analysis highlight the relevance of Huizinga's "homo ludens" paradigm and established sport theories emphasising the separation of work and eSports and the danger of increasing professionalisation in the sports sector. The marginal step of denying eSports their sports qualification becomes evident against this backdrop. Critical theory, particularly Adorno's and neo-Marxist sports theories, views competitive sports as "alienated labour," a perspective applicable to eSports. Simplistic approaches like "sport is play" or "competitive sport is alienated labour" prove misleading in the context of eSports. Conversely, abductive definitional approaches should holistically accentuate the uniqueness and specificity of eSports, considering all relevant aspects. In the sense of a nominal definition, these efforts should include a factual-scientific foundation, weighting, and alignment of the dominant aspects of eSports.

The study concludes that optimisation processes in eSports require a balance between maximal performance and sustainable development, respecting the physiological and psychological limits of human capacities and ethical principles. The optimisation process generally aims to fully unfold individual and collective abilities while considering the physical and psychological aspects of eSports athletes. This approach highlights the need for an ethical and responsible approach in eSports to ensure the well-being of eSports athletes and the integrity of eSports.