Supported by data collected from hundreds of MMO players worldwide, this session will present three specific motivational needs that when satisfied in the player are proven predictors of enjoyment, enthusiasm, value, and sustained subscriptions. Going deeper, the presentation will then discuss how a game’s satisfaction of these needs can be objectively measured. Specific examples of features and gameplay will be reviewed (including aspects of solo play, cooperative play, and in-game narrative) that are significantly related to satisfying these motivational needs and hence increasing the likelihood of sustained subscriptions, word of mouth marketing, customer value, as well as fun, enjoyment, and enthusiasm for the game.