Game Difficulty Balancing: Adaptive Difficulty and Its Effect on Player Experience

Adaptive difficulty is a game design approach that modifies the challenge level to match the player’s abilities. This study investigates how such adjustments influence player experience, focusing on engagement, flow, perceived fairness, and satisfaction. Drawing on psychological theories, prior research, and practical examples from the videogame industry, the work examines both the benefits and potential drawbacks of adaptive mechanics. Special attention is given to the ways players perceive autonomy, competence, and control within dynamically balanced games. Furthermore, this study extends current understanding by categorizing different methods of adaptive adjustment, addressing ethical considerations, and analyzing the effects on diverse player types. These perspectives illuminate how thoughtful design of adaptive systems can enhance long-term engagement, support accessibility, and maintain the integrity of the gameplay experience.