Cheating in Games Impacts Spending

A report from PlaySafe ID, based on research conducted by Atomik Research, has provided an in-depth look at the scale and impact of cheating in PC gaming. The survey involved 2,013 participants aged 18 and over from both the UK and the US, offering a broad perspective on how cheating shapes player experiences, purchasing decisions, and perceptions of game developers.

The findings indicate that cheating remains a deeply ingrained issue within the gaming community. Eighty percent of respondents reported encountering cheaters at least once in their lifetime, while over half (52%) experience this problem on a monthly basis. These figures suggest that for many players, cheating is not an occasional inconvenience but a recurring obstacle to fair competition and enjoyment.

State of Cheating in Video Games

State of Cheating in Video Games

The influence of cheating extends beyond in-game interactions. The survey revealed that 54% of respondents had come across cheating-related content on YouTube, 38% encountered such content on TikTok, and 34% saw it on gaming-focused websites. This visibility may contribute to normalizing or spreading awareness of cheating practices, further embedding the issue within gaming culture.

State of Cheating in Video Games

Effects on Player Retention and Engagement

The presence of cheaters has significant consequences for player retention. Forty-two percent of surveyed gamers stated that they had considered quitting a game because of cheating, with some ultimately abandoning specific titles entirely. The data suggests that the perception of a fair and balanced game environment is a strong motivator for engagement, as 83% of players indicated they would be more likely to play a game if it were free of cheaters.

This pattern underlines the role of anti-cheating measures not only as a technical necessity but also as a competitive advantage in attracting and retaining players. In an increasingly competitive gaming market, including web3-enabled games, the assurance of fair play can serve as a distinctive selling point.

State of Cheating in Video Games

Financial Impact on In-Game Economies

Cheating also has a measurable effect on in-game spending. Seventeen percent of respondents reported stopping all spending in games where they encountered cheating, while 38% reduced their spending. The group most sensitive to cheating-related frustrations consists of players who typically spend between $11 and $50 per month. Among these, one-third stopped making purchases altogether and left the game.

These figures highlight how cheating can directly undermine revenue streams, particularly from engaged players who are otherwise inclined to spend regularly. For developers and publishers, maintaining a fair gaming environment is not only about protecting the player experience but also about safeguarding long-term monetization strategies.

State of Cheating in Video Games

Player Perspectives on Enforcement

Despite the frustrations caused by cheating, the majority of respondents (94%) expressed confidence that developers are actively working to address the issue. This perception aligns with the economic interest of developers, who benefit from sustaining trust and engagement among their player base.

The survey also found strong support for stricter enforcement policies. Seventy-nine percent of participants stated that cheating bans should not be limited to a single game, but rather extend to other titles from the same publisher or platform. Such cross-title enforcement could help deter repeat offenders and reinforce the seriousness of anti-cheating policies.

State of Cheating in Video Games

The Complexity of Player Behavior

While most players oppose cheating, the survey also revealed a more complex side to the issue. Sixty-two percent of respondents admitted to sometimes feeling tempted to cheat, with 25% stating that this temptation arises often. This suggests that attitudes toward cheating are not entirely binary, and that the motivations behind such behavior may be shaped by competitive pressures, perceived unfairness, or curiosity.

Understanding these nuances is crucial for developers when designing both preventative measures and player education initiatives. Addressing the root causes of cheating temptation could prove as important as technological countermeasures in reducing its prevalence.

State of Cheating in Video Games

Final Thoughts

The 2025 PlaySafe ID report presents a clear picture of the ongoing challenges cheating poses to the gaming industry. From reducing player engagement to directly impacting revenue, the effects of cheating are multifaceted and significant. While most players recognize and appreciate developers’ anti-cheating efforts, the persistence of the problem underscores the need for continued innovation in enforcement and prevention strategies.

In a gaming landscape that now includes web3-enabled titles and increasingly interconnected player communities, the ability to ensure a fair and balanced environment will remain a decisive factor in player loyalty and long-term success.