In this episode of Lore & Order, we explore a strange phenomenon. Why we often struggle with failure in real life, but when it comes to games...we kind of enjoy it?

From Dark Souls bosses to repeated deaths in punishing platformers, failure is a constant in gaming, yet we keep coming back for more of it.

We break down what makes failure in games feel so different from real life. From fast feedback loops and re-spawn mechanics, to the psychology of challenge, games create a space where failure isn’t something to fear; it’s part of the fun.

So why does failing in a game feel motivating, while failing in real life can feel overwhelming?

And what can we take from games to build a healthier relationship with failure outside of them?

🎮 This week’s side quest: View your next real life failure through a gaming  ...