BACKGROUND
Chinese gamers use computers and mobile games widely. Consequently, concerns regarding the development of Internet gaming disorder (IGD) in adolescents have been raised. However, only a few studies have focused on the influence of gaming devices on IGD.
OBJECTIVE
This study aimed to compare sociodemographic information, gaming use characteristics, personality traits, and gaming motivations between computer game users and mobile phone game users, as well as to identify the IGD predictors.
METHODS
A total of 3593 Internet game players took part in an online survey and anonymously filled out a questionnaire containing sociodemographic information, gaming patterns, gaming motivations, the Chinese version of the Video Gaming Dependency Scale, and the Chinese Big Five Personality Inventory brief version.
RESULTS
It was found that there were significant differences between the two groups in gaming usage patterns, game genres, motivations and personality traits, and Internet game addiction scores. The study also showed that the IGD predictors were different for the two gaming device groups. Individuals using different gaming devices exhibited different characteristics, indicating that they may help predict IGD development.
CONCLUSIONS
Gaming devices should be considered during early identification, such as long daily gaming time, much money spent on gaming, neuroticism and conscientiousness. In addition, more research should be conducted on new gaming devices and IGD treatment.