playing
games (MMORPGs) has been documented. However, the role of schizotypal personality traits in
MMORPG use is understudied. The aim of this study was to explore the potential links between schizotypal
traits, motivations for playing MMORPGs, and symptoms of problematic MMORPG use. Eightythree
MMORPG gamers were enrolled in the study. They filled out questionnaires measuring schizotypal
personality traits and an adapted version of the same scale designed to measure in-game schizotypal
traits. All participants also filled out questionnaires assessing motivations for gaming and
disordered use of MMORPGs. Results of the study showed that the disorganized and interpersonal traits
of schizotypy decreased when participants were thinking about themselves in the virtual world.
Schizotypal traits, together with achievement and immersion motives, predicted problematic use of
MMORPGs. The findings of this study may suggest that schizotypal traits and motivations for playing can
interact and play a pivotal role in the onset and maintenance of problematic gaming.