This paper analyzes different player type models and game elements in the literature, particularly focusing on the case of online games. Research based on an exploratory study is presented; it aims to explore the different types of interaction with gameful digital applications. The study is based on a survey and provides findings from the literature review and empirical insights about users' differences and preferences regarding game elements. The results reveal demographics regarding player profiles and the relationships between gender, age, culture, and the influence of different game design elements and platforms. The main contribution of this study fulfills the need for knowledge about the relationship between game element design, platforms/devices, and players (types and preferences).
Keywords: age differences; devices; gameful design; gender differences; online games; platforms; player preferences.