Social Responsibility in a Wicked World: an exploratory discussion on how the video game industry can exponentially impact society for the better

Abstract: This paper explores the relationship between Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) and the video game industry, taking video game studios as the main subjects. The aim was to understand the perceived importance of implementing CSR initiatives within businesses and to ascertain the current state of the industry in regard to the subject. A review of the literature was conducted in order to comprehend the various definitions and frameworks developed in relation to CSR, as well as to find a practical approach to their implementation. Likewise, an overview of the industry itself was put forth in order to understand its reach and various dimensions. In order to be able to collect relevant quantitative and qualitative data, a questionnaire and semi-structured interviews were developed using a multi-mixed-method approach. Additionally, the secondary data collection contributed to the study by compiling a sample of collaborations and CSR reports from key players within the industry. In total, 46 video game studio employees answered the questionnaire, and three individuals in managerial positions were interviewed. From this, the research found that most of the participants understand the importance of CSR, the potential the industry has, and the value it could generate if implemented correctly. Additionally, some of the respondents have some ideas on how these initiatives could be implemented and help towards the betterment of society, although mainly focused on environmental and social aspects. Despite this, it was found that although there exists a rising awareness and momentum towards sustainability, the industry is still relatively new to the implementation of CSR, and the main challenges associated with it come mainly from economic factors, as well as the difficulty to monitor the results and understand their impact in practice.