Determinants of digital leisure engagement in e-sports among the Indonesian Generation Z

Authors

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.47197/retos.v81.119039

Keywords:

E-sports, leisure satisfaction, e-sports motivation, digital leisure engagement, generation z

Abstract

Introduction: This study examines the determinants of digital leisure engagement in e-sports among Indonesian Generation Z. As e-sports rapidly grows as a popular form of digital entertainment, understanding the psychological and social factors influencing engagement becomes increasingly important.

Objective: This study investigates the roles of e-sports motivation, social influence, perceived enjoyment, and leisure satisfaction in shaping digital leisure engagement.

Methodology: A quantitative research design was employed using a survey method. Data were collected from 376 Generation Z respondents in Java, Indonesia, using a structured questionnaire with a 5-point Likert scale. Data were analyzed using PLS-SEM with SmartPLS.

Results: The findings reveal that e-sports motivation, social influence, and perceived enjoyment significantly influence leisure satisfaction and digital leisure engagement. Leisure satisfaction also significantly affects digital leisure engagement. All proposed hypotheses were supported, demonstrating the robustness of the model.

Discussion: The results highlight the importance of motivational, experiential, and social factors in shaping e-sports participation among Generation Z. Enjoyment and peer influence play a key role in enhancing engagement and satisfaction in digital leisure activities.

Conclusions: This study contributes to the literature on digital leisure and e-sports by demonstrating how psychological and social factors influence engagement behavior. The findings also provide practical insights for e-sports developers and digital platforms to improve user engagement and satisfaction.

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Published

01-06-2026

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Original Research Article

How to Cite

Jamalulel, I., Sihombing, A., & Liu, L.- wei. (2026). Determinants of digital leisure engagement in e-sports among the Indonesian Generation Z. Retos, 81, 442-456. https://doi.org/10.47197/retos.v81.119039