Why Geometry Dash is addicting

updated 2023-09-06

In 2021 I had a Geometry Dash phase, which is surprising considering how shallow the game is. I went through the "endless 'one more try'" pattern more intensely than with any other game. There are a couple of obvious reasons:

Because retries are automatic.

Because each try is short so it's easy to convince yourself to try again.

But there's a less obvious factor that casts a much darker light on the game:

Because losses are unsatisfying.

And we don't like to end on an unsatisfying note.

Why are losses unsatisfying?

Because they're completely sudden.

Because they rarely involve a lesson. Most Geometry Dash deaths are "fuck, I *know* not to jump there but I keep doing it anyway".

Because the level is the same every time, so there's no new experience at all unless you improve your record.