Reductiontainment

Reductiontainment refers to a phenomenon where the intensity or difficulty of a challenge or problem is reduced to the point where it is no longer enjoyable or engaging. This can occur in various contexts, such as puzzles, games, or cognitive tasks. When a challenge is too easy, it can become monotonous or boring, leading to a loss of interest or motivation.

Reductiontainment is often seen as the opposite of "incremental increase in difficulty," where challenges become progressively harder, more complex, or rewarding as one progresses through them. In games, reductiontainment can be observed when levels or difficulties become too repetitive or too simplistic, making the experience less fulfilling for players.

One possible reason for reductiontainment is the human desire for a sense of accomplishment and self-efficacy. When challenges are too easy, individuals may not feel a sense of pride or satisfaction in completing them. This can lead to a decrease in motivation and engagement, as one may not feel that their skills or abilities are being adequately challenged.

In some cases, reductiontainment can be intentional on the part of game designers or teachers, who may aim to create a gentle learning curve or a introductory experience. However, in many cases, reductiontainment is an unintended consequence of over-simplification or poor game design. Researchers and game designers have studied reductiontainment to better understand how to create engaging and challenging experiences that do not lead to boredom or disengagement.