"The study showed MMORPGs can be extremely social games, with high percentages of gamers making life-long friends and partners." v. interesting observation.

An old paper this, picked up via matt webb. needs to be read. explores the playing dynamics of MUDS, identifies 4 player types (achievers, explorers, socializers and killers) and offers food for design thought.

Influential researcher and writer about the social life of virtual worlds. A list of his publications is here. Recommend "virtual third places..." (2007)

Great stuff here; players wanting to communicate with each other but being bound by the in-game rules and player collaboration being key to generating a community. Adversarial contact on the other hand, "deperso

The psychology of MMORPGS by Nick Yee

Great article and resource for studies into MMORPGs.

Conflict is often seen as the essence of gaming. However, this article puts the emphasis on co-operation and explains how player co-operation is a vital part of MMOGs.

A general list of their publications on Teenagers and Digital Media is available here.

Papers on design theory, ARGs and allsorts. Would love to get hold of the audio files behind her powerpoint slides :)