The Effect of Digital Technology on Traditional Game Culture Preservation, Behavior Change, and Community Participation

Traditional games have long been integral to cultural heritage, serving as a medium for social interaction, cognitive development, and intergenerational knowledge transfer. However, the rapid growth of digital technologies has significantly altered the landscape of entertainment and social engagement(Gonçalves et al., 2023), leading to the declineof traditional games in many societies(Cerezo-Pizarro et al., 2023). The increasing reliance on digital platforms for recreation has raised concerns about the cultural preservation of traditional games and their impact on community participation and behavior change(Meriläinen, 2023). Although digital technologies offer innovative ways to document and revive traditional games, their effects on behavioral dynamics and social cohesion remain the subject of scholarly debate(McCauley et al., 2020). This shift raises concerns about the sustainability of traditional games within a society that increasingly favors digital platforms for recreation(Kraus et al., 2021). Several studies have explored the impact of digital technology on cultural preservation, emphasizing its role in documenting and revitalizing traditional games through online archives, mobile applications, and interactive platforms(Purnomo & Pratiwi, 2023). Researchers Adhiarso et al.(2019)have highlighted the potential of gamification in promoting traditional games among the younger generation, whileSanjaya & Chandra(2023)have examined shifts in social behavior due to increased engagement with digital alternatives. The transformative effect of digital technology on traditional games is multifaceted. Digital adaptations of traditional games can serve as a means of cultural preservation and revitalization. For example,Bakar et al.(2018)noted that digitized traditional games can attract younger generations, thus supporting awareness and preservation of cultural heritage.Similarly,Suherman et al.(2019)proposed an instructional model incorporating traditional games that optimizes various developmental skills in kindergarten children, highlighting the potential benefits of a digital framework for cognitive and social abilities. Additionally,Fitri et al.(2020)discussed the importance of reconstructing traditional game formats to better suit modern players while maintaining their educational and cultural significance, ensuring their continued relevance and longevity. Maintaining historical context and community engagement is critical to maintaining the integrity and depth of traditional games in the face of ever-evolving entertainment modalities(Ariesta & Maftuh, 2020).While digital technology has the potential to reinvigorate interest in traditional games, concerns about changes in behavior and community participation remain. Traditional games provide cognitive and social skills important for child development in an eradominated by digital entertainment. This duality of traditional and digital games presents complex challenges for society, as traditional games often encourage direct social interaction and skill development that can be diluted in digital environments(Hasan & Husein, 2024). Furthermore, the rise of digital games correlates with increasing issues such as loneliness and social alienation, particularly among adolescents, as noted byParlak et al.(2023), who underscore negative behavioral changes as traditional games decline. However, despite these insights, existing research focuses more on technological aspects than broader socio-cultural implications. In addition, existing research also remains limited in investigating the extent to which digital technologies encourage or discourage community participation in traditional game practices. One of the main limitations of previous research is the lack of a comprehensive analysis of the behavioral transformation caused by digital technology in traditional game culture. Most studies focus on preservation efforts or technology integration withoutassessing their combined impact on behavior change and social participation. This research aims to bridge this gap by offering an interdisciplinary approach integrating cultural studies, behavioral psychology, and digital innovation. By addressing these limitations, this research will provide a more holistic understanding of how digital technologies are reshaping the traditional gaming landscape and its broader implications for society.The scientific merit of this research lies in its new perspective on the interaction between digital advancements and traditional cultural practices. Unlike previous studies that often isolate digital technologies as either a threat or a solution to cultural preservation, this research adopts a balanced viewpoint, recognizing its challenges and opportunities. In addition, this study also introduces a conceptual framework that evaluates the effectiveness of digital interventions in sustaining traditional games while analyzing the associated shifts in behavior and community engagement. The findings from this study will contribute to the broader discourse on cultural sustainability in the digital age and offer practical recommendations for policymakers, educators, and cultural practitioners. The main objective of this research is to investigate the influence of digital technology on the cultural preservation of traditional games, the behavioral transformation it brings about, and its effect on community participation. To achieve this goal, this study will address the following research questions: (1) How do digital technologies contribute to the documentation and preservation of traditional games? (2) In what ways does digital integration affect behavioral changeamong traditional game players? (3) What are the implications of digital adaptation for community engagement and intergenerational interaction in the context of traditional games?</p>

This study employs a quantitative research approach to examine the impact of digital technology on the preservation of traditional games, behavioral changes, and community participation. The research utilizes a survey-based method to collect data from a large sample of respondents across different demographic groups. Using a structured questionnaire allows for the systematic collection of numerical data, facilitating statistical analysis to identify trends and relationships among key variables.Research DesignThe study adopts a cross-sectional survey design, where data is collected from a representative sample at a single point in time. This design is suitable for assessing the relationship between digital technology usage and traditional game engagement and measuring the perceived changes in behavior and community participation.Population and SampleThe target population for this study consists of individuals aged 15-50 with experience with either traditional or digital games. The study employs stratified random sampling to ensure representation from different age groups, geographical regions, and levels of exposure to digital technology. A sample size of 500 respondents is determined based on statistical power analysis to ensure robust and generalizable findings.Data Collection MethodData is collected through an online questionnaire distributed via email, social media platforms, and community gaming forums. The questionnaire consists of closed-ended questions with Likert scale responses (e.g., 1 = Strongly Disagree to 5 = Strongly Agree) to measure attitudes, perceptions, and behaviors related to traditional game preservation, behavior changes, and digital adaptation.Variables and MeasurementThe independent variable in this study is the use of digital technology, which is measured based on several indicators: frequency of interaction with digital games, the use of applications for traditional games, engagement in online gaming communities, accessibility of digital gaming platforms, and ease of navigation within digital games(Davis, 1989). The dependent variables include traditional game preservation, behavioral changes, and community participation. Traditional game preservation is measured by engagement with traditional games before and after digital integration(Faizal et al., 2023). Behavioral changes are assessed based on the frequency of social interactions, cognitive engagement, and gaming habits(Khoiriyah, 2024). Meanwhile, community participation is evaluated through involvement in gaming events, intergenerational interactions, and cultural attachment(Khoiriyah, 2024). By analyzing these variables quantitatively, this study aims to identify significant correlations and causal relationships between digital technology adoption and its impact on traditional gaming culture.The following is a conceptual framework that describes the relationship between variables in this study:1.Use of Digital Technology (Independent Variable) affects: a.Preservation of Traditional Games (Dependent Variable 1)b.Behavior Change (Dependent Variable 2)c.Community Participation (Dependent Variable 3)2.Relationship between variables:a.Hypothesis 1:Use of Digital Technology AffectsTraditional Game Culture Preservation(The higher the use of digital technology, the greater the likelihood of traditional games being documented and studied in digital format.)b.Hypothesis 2: Use of Digital Technology AffectsBehavior Change(The use of digital technology can change play behavior patterns, duration, preferences, and social engagement.)c.Hypothesis 3: Use of Digital Technology AffectsCommunity Participation(Technology adoption can increase individual engagement in traditional gaming communities through digital platforms and technology-based events.)3.Indirect relationship:a.Hypothesis 4: Traditional Game Preservation AffectsCommunity Participation(If traditional games are preserved and available in digital formats, individuals are likelier to participate in communities that promote the culture.)b.Hypothesis 5: Behavior Change AffectsCommunity Participation(Behavioral changes due to digitization may encourage or discourage participation in traditional gaming communities.)Figure 1.Conceptual frameworkSource: Author(2025)Data AnalysisData collected is analyzed using SmartPLS (Partial Least Squares Structural Equation Modeling -PLS-SEM) to examine the relationships between variables. The analysis includes descriptive statistics, correlation analysis, and multiple regression modeling. Descriptive statistics (mean, standard deviation, and frequency distribution) provide an overview of the dataset. Correlation analysis identifies the strength and direction of relationships between digital technology use and engagement with traditional games. Furthermore, PLS-SEM regression modeling is Digital TechnologyTraditional GameCulture PreservationCommunity ParticipationBehavioral ChangesH1H2H3H4H5 applied to assess the predictive impact of digital technology on behavioral changes and community participation. SmartPLS is chosen due to its ability to handle complex models with multiple constructs while addressing measurement errors effectively.The evaluation of the measurement model involves convergent validity, discriminant validity, and reliability testing using Cronbach's alpha and composite reliability (CR). The structural model is assessed through path coefficients, R² values, and effect sizes (f²). Bootstrapping with 5,000 resamples is conducted to determine the statistical significance of path coefficients.Ethical ConsiderationsThe study ensures ethical compliance by obtaining informed consent from participants before data collection. Respondent anonymity and confidentiality are maintained, and participation is voluntary, with the option to withdraw at any time. The research follows ethical guidelines for human subject research and has been approved by an institutional review board</p>

Based on the SmartPLS (PLS-SEM) analysis results, it was found that the Use of Digital Technology significantly influences the Preservation of Traditional Game Culture, Community Participation, and Behavior Change.Figure 2.Structural regression testing resultsSource: Smart-PLS 3.9 test results(2025)The structural regression analysis in Figure 2 shows that digital technology has a path coefficient of 0.650 for preserving traditional game culture. This indicates that the higher the use of digital technology, the greater the effort to protect conventional games in digital format. This is reinforced by the loading factor values of the Traditional Game Culture Preservation indicators (TG1-TG4), which range from 0.773 to 0.901, indicating strong validity in the model.In addition, the Use of Digital Technology also influences Community Participation, with a path coefficient of 0.310. This suggests that although digital technology contributes to increased community participation in traditional games, its influence is lower than its influence on preserving traditional game culture. The Community Participation (CP1-CP4) indicators have high load factor values, ranging from 0.699 to 0.920, indicating that digitizing traditional games can enhance community participation.In addition, the Use of Digital Technology has the most impact on Behavior Change, with a path coefficient of 0.773. This indicates that the digitization of games affects how traditional games are preserved and directly changes the behavior of players interacting and participating in traditional games. The factor load values of the Behavior Change indicators (BC1-BC4) range from 0.849 to 0.876, which confirms that behavioral aspects, such as social engagement, play habits, and cognition, are strongly influenced by digitization.In addition to these direct relationships, there is an indirect influence between Traditional Game Culture Preservation and Behavior Change on Community Participation, with a path coefficient of 0.521. This suggests that individuals more involved in preserving traditional games are more active in gaming communities in physical and digital forms.Table 1. Outer Loadings resultsIndicatorDigital TechnologyTraditional Game Culture PreservationBehavioral ChangesCommunity ParticipationDT10.772DT20.873DT30.615DT40.748DT50.773TG10.773TG20.901TG30.823TG40.884BC10.876BC20.849BC30.857BC40.872CP10.892CP20.920CP30.836CP40.699Source: Smart-PLS 3.9 test results(2025) After testing the model structure shown in Figure 2, it was found that all indicators met the validity criteria. According to Wiyono (2011),, “the assessment criteria for convergent validity is that the loading factor value between 0.50 to 0.60 is considered adequate”. By considering these criteria, the next step is to test discriminant validity using cross-loading. In this test, the cross-loading value is compared with other constructs. An indicator is considered valid if it has the highest cross-loading value on its target construct compared to other constructs. After ensuring all indicators meet these criteria, the test proceeds to the nextstage, as shown in Table 2.Table 2. Algorithm testing resultsVariableAVECronbach’s AlphaComposite ReliabilityR Square (R2)DescriptionDigital Technology0.5790.8150.8720.ReliableTraditional Game Culture Preservation0.7170.8680.9100.423ReliableBehavioral Changes0.7460.8870.9220.597ReliableCommunity Participation0.7080.8600.9060.843ReliableSource: Smart-PLS 3.9 test resultsBased on the algorithm testing results presented in Table 2, all variables in this study show good reliability based on the Average Variance Extracted (AVE), Cronbach's Alpha, Composite Reliability (CR), and R Square (R²) values.The Digital Technology variable has an AVE of 0.579, Cronbach's Alpha of 0.815, and Composite Reliability of 0.872, which indicates that this variable has a pretty good level of reliability. The AVE value above 0.5 indicates that this variable can explain more than 50% of the indicator variance. With a Cronbach's Alpha value above 0.7 and CR above 0.8, it can be concluded that the measurement of the Digital Technology variable is reliable.Furthermore, the Traditional Game Culture Preservation variable shows more substantial reliability with an AVE of 0.717, Cronbach's Alpha 0.868, and Composite Reliability of 0.910. AVE above 0.7 indicates that the indicators in this variable have excellentconvergence in explaining the latent variable. In addition, the R Square (R²) value of 0.423 suggests that Digital Technology can explain about 42.3% of the variability in Traditional Game Culture Preservation, which means a reasonably strong relationshipbetween the two.The Behavioral Changes variable also has good results, with an AVE of 0.746, Cronbach's Alpha of 0.887, and Composite Reliability of 0.922, indicating that the indicators in this variable are very consistent in measuring behavioral changes caused by the digitization of traditional games. The R² value of 0.597 suggests that Digital Technology contributes 59.7% in explaining behavior change due to game digitization.The Community Participation variable has an AVE of 0.708, Cronbach's Alpha of 0.860, and Composite Reliability of 0.906, which indicates high reliability. In addition, this variable has the highest R² value of 0.843, which means that Digital vTechnology and other variables can explain 84.3% of the variability in Community Participation. This suggests that adopting digital technology plays a massive role in increasing community engagement in traditional games, both physically and through digitalplatforms.Overall, the test results show that all variables in the research model have high reliability and can significantly explain variability in the dependent variable. This suggests that the model used is reliable for understanding the relationship between the use of digital technology, traditional game preservation, behavior change, and community participation.The coefficient of total determination (Q2) is used to test the model's appropriateness. Q-square (Q2) measures how well the model and its parameter estimates produce thevalue of an observation. The model has predictive relevance if the Q-square (Q2) value is more significant than zero (0). Conversely, if the Q-square (Q2) value is less than zero (0), this suggests that the model lacks predictive relevance (Ghozali, 2008). To calculate Q-square (Q2), the following formula is used:𝑄2=1−(√1−𝑅12)×(√1−𝑅22)×(√1−𝑅32)After thesecriteria are considered, the next step is testing discriminant validity with cross-loading.𝑄2=1−(√1−𝑅12)×(√1−𝑅22)×(√1−𝑅32)𝑄2=1−(√1−0.4232)×(√1−0.5972)×(√1−0.8432)𝑄2=1−(√0.577)×(√0.403)×(√0.157)𝑄2=1−0.191𝑄2=0.809Based on the results of the Q² calculation, a Q² value of 0.809 was obtained. This value indicatesthat the research model has excellent predictive ability in explaining the relationship between the Use of Digital Technology, Cultural Preservation of Traditional Games, Behavior Change, and Community Participation.This calculation is done by subtracting the R² value from 1 for each dependent variable and then taking the square root of the result. After that, the square root results are multiplied by each other, and the final result is subtracted from 1. A Q² value greater than zero indicates that the model has good predictive relevance, which means that the independent variables used in this study can significantly explain the dependent variable.With a Q² value of 0.809, it can be concluded that this model is robust in explaining the phenomenon under study. The closer to 1, the higher the model's accuracy in predicting the dependent variable. In the context of this study, the high Q² results indicate that digitalization plays a significant role in influencing the preservation of traditional games, changes in player behavior, and increased participation in the conventional game community. Therefore, the model used in this study is reliable for understanding how digital technology contributes to the transformation of traditional games in the modern era.Figure 3.Bootstrapping testing resultsSource: Smart-PLS 3.9 test results(2025)Table 3. Bootstrapping test results with direct effectOriginal sample (O)Sample Mean (M)Standard Deviation (STDEV)T-statistics(| O/STDEV |)P-valuesUse of Digital Technology Affects Traditional Game Culture Preservation0.6500.6520.06510.0000.000Use of Digital Technology Affects Behavior Change0.7730.7760.03820.1510.000Use of Digital Technology Affects Community Participation0.3100.3120.0734.2270.000Traditional Game Preservation Affects Community Participation0.1640.1640.0632.6280.009BehaviorChange Affects Community Participation0.5210.5200.0816.4380.000Source: Smart-PLS 3.9 test results(2025) Based on the bootstrapping test results for direct effects shown in Table 3, it is found that all relationships between variables in the research model have significant T-statistic values and p-values <0.05, indicating that all direct effects in this research model are statistically significant.The analysis results show that the Use of Digital Technology substantially directly affects the Cultural Preservation of Traditional Games, with a path coefficient (O) of 0.650 and a T-statistic of 10.000. The p-value = 0.000 indicates that this relationship is highly significant. This suggests that the higher the use of digital technology, the greater the impact on the preservation of traditional games, both in the form of digitization and documentation of traditional games.Furthermore, the Use of Digital Technology also significantly impacts Behavior Change, with a path coefficient of 0.773, T-statistic of 20.151, and p-value = 0.000. This indicates that the digitization of traditional games can directly change the players' playing habits and social interactions. With a high T-statistic value, this effect is powerful compared to other variables.In addition, the Use of Digital Technology also affects Community Participation, with a path coefficient of 0.310 and a T-statistic of 4.227. Although the effect is minor compared to the impact on Behavior Change and Cultural Preservation of Traditional Games, this relationship is still significant with a p-value = 0.000. This suggests that digital technology can increase individual engagement in traditional game communities through digital platforms and conventional game-based events.Furthermore, it was found that Cultural Preservation of Traditional Games influences Community Participation, with a path coefficient of 0.164, T-statistic of 2.628, and p-value of 0.009. Although the effect is minor compared to the other variables, this result suggests that when traditional games are successfully preserved-both in physical and digital form-they are more likely to participate in communities that promote traditional games actively.Finally, BehaviorChange has the most significant impact on Community Participation, with a path coefficient of 0.521, a T-statistic of 6.438, and a p-value of 0.000. This suggests that the more significant the change in behavior due to game digitization, the higher the level of individual participation in the traditional game community. This can occur due to changes in play preferences and social interaction patterns that encourage individuals to be more active in game-based communities.Table 4. Bootstrapping test results with indirect effectsOriginal sample (O)Sample Mean (M)Standard Deviation (STDEV)T-statistics(| O/STDEV |)P-valuesUse of Digital Technology Affects Traditional Game Culture Preservation0.1070.1060.0412.6100.009 Use of Digital Technology Affects Behavior Change0.4030.4030.0656.1550.000Use of Digital Technology Affects Community Participation0.5090.5100.0569.1070.000Source: Smart-PLS 3.9 test results(2025)Based on the bootstrapping test results for indirect effects shown in Table 4, it is found that all indirect relationships in the research model have significant T-statistic values and p-values <0.05, indicating that the mediation effect in this model has strong statistical significance.The analysis shows that the Use of Digital Technology indirectly affects the Cultural Preservation of Traditional Games, with a path coefficient (O) of 0.107, a T-statistic of 2.610, and a p-value of 0.009. Although the effect is not as significant as the direct effect, this relationship is still essential, indicating a mediating mechanism between the use of digital technology and the preservation of traditional games. In other words, digital technology affects game preservation directly and directly through different factors such as behavior change or community participation.Furthermore, the use of digital technology also has an indirect effect on behavior change, with a path coefficient of 0.403, a T-statistic of 6.155, and a p-value of 0.000. This value indicates that digital technology changes player behavior directly and through other intermediary factors, such as game preservation or traditional game communities. This considerable effect indicates that digitalization changes gaming habits and shapes social interaction patterns and individual involvement in conventional games.In addition, the Use of Digital Technology has the most substantial indirect effect on Community Participation, with a path coefficient of 0.509, T-statistic of 9.107, and p-value of 0.000. These results suggest that digital technology plays a significant role in increasing community participation directly and through mediating mechanisms, such as behavior change and preservation of traditional games. With a very high T-statistic value, digital technology substantially shapes individual involvement in traditional game communities.Table 5. Bootstrapping test results with total effectsOriginal sample (O)Sample Mean (M)Standard Deviation (STDEV)T-statistics(| O/STDEV |)P-valuesUse of Digital Technology Affects Traditional Game Culture Preservation0.6500.6520.06510.0000.000Use of Digital Technology Affects Behavior Change0.7730.7760.03820.1510.000Use of Digital Technology Affects 0.8200.8120.03523.1090.000 Community ParticipationTraditional Game Preservation Affects Community Participation0.1640.1640.0632.6280.009Behavior Change Affects Community Participation0.5210.5200.0816.4380.000Source: Smart-PLS 3.9 test results(2025)Based on the bootstrapping results for total effects shown in Table 5, all relationships between variables in the research model have significant T-statistic values and p-values <0.05, indicating that both direct and indirect effects in this model have a statistically strong influence.The analysis results show that the Use of Digital Technology significantly affects the Cultural Preservation of Traditional Games, with a path coefficient of 0.650, a T-statistic of 10.000, and a p-value of 0.000. This indicates that digitalization plays asignificant role in preserving traditional games directly and through other mediating factors. This value is consistent with the direct effect results, which show that digital technology encourages the documentation, learning, and preservation of traditional games through digital platforms.Furthermore, the Use of Digital Technology greatly influences Behavior Change, with a path coefficient of 0.773, T-statistic of 20.151, and p-value of 0.000. These results indicate that the higher the level of digitization in the game, the greater the behavioral changes in players. These changes can be in the form of increased digital engagement, changes in social interaction patterns, and adaptation to technology-based game models.In addition, the Use of Digital Technology has the highest total effect on Community Participation, with a path coefficient of 0.820, a T-statistic of 23.109, and a p-value of 0.000. This indicates that digital technology not only increases community engagement directly but also through the mediating effect of behavior change andcultural preservation of traditional games. In other words, the digitization of games encourages players to be more active in communities that discuss, practice, and preserve traditional games, both in digital and physical formats.In addition, Traditional Game Preservation influences Community Participation, with a path coefficient of 0.164, T-statistic of 2.628, and p-value of 0.009. Although the effect is not as significant as the direct effect of digitization, this result suggests that individuals more involved in preserving traditional games tend to be more active in communities that promote the games.Finally, Behavior Change significantly impacts Community Participation, with a path coefficient of 0.521, a T-statistic of 6.438,and a p-value of 0.000. This indicates that changes in playing behavior patterns due to digitization directly increase individuals' involvement in traditional game communities. For example, players more familiar with the digitization of games may be more motivated to seek out communities or forums that discuss traditional games in both digital and physical forms.</p> <p>Overall, these bootstrapping total effects results suggest that using Digital Technology is essential in preserving traditional games, behavior change, and increased community participation. With a high T-statistic value and a significant p-value, the model used in this study has strong empirical support. The digitization of traditional games not only impacts how the games are played but also social interactions and broader community engagement. Therefore, efforts to preserve conventional games through digital technology must be optimized to maintain the game's social and cultural essence.</p>

Based on the research results previously described, the following is a discussion of the proposed hypothesis:Hypothesis 1: Use of Digital Technology Affects Traditional Game Culture PreservationThis study shows that the use of digital technology significantly influences the preservation of traditional game culture. This indicates that digital technology is essential in documenting and preserving traditional games. For example, the digitization offolklore has helped maintain the sustainability of conventional stories through transformation into various digital forms so that the current generation can still enjoy them. In addition, digital technology enables more expansive and interactive access tocultural heritage, making it more accessible and learnable to the broader community(Gayatri et al., 2023).The relationship between digital technology and traditional game culture is increasingly essential for preserving cultural heritage. Digital innovations have significantly impacted the maintenance and documentation of conventional games, demonstrating their potential to be revitalized in contemporary society. For example, the work ofBekele et al.(2018)highlights how augmented and virtual reality technologies can create immersive experiences that bring cultural heritage to life, facilitating interactive engagement with traditional games and narratives. Similarly,Pisoni et al.(2021)emphasize that human-centered artificial intelligence can increase accessibility to cultural heritage, ensuring that traditional games are documented and experienced in new, interactive formats that appeal to modern audiences.Furthermore, digitizing cultural narratives and traditional games fosters a new generation's interest in this heritage.Bakar et al.(2018)argue that the digitization of folklore, including traditional games, plays an important role in ensuring the sustainability of these cultural assets by transforming them into accessible formats that resonate with contemporary audiences. This accessibilityextends to educational contexts, as digital platforms enable wider dissemination and understanding of cultural heritage(Selmanović et al., 2020). Moreover, innovative documentation methods have emerged through contemporary technologies, enhancing the preservation of intangible cultural heritage.Selmanović et al.(2020)note that virtual reality approaches provide a medium to preserve and experience traditional narratives, allowing users to engage with cultural practices in a previously unattainable depth.This digital methodology also creates opportunities to educate younger generations about traditional games and their importance, thus promoting intergenerational knowledge transfer and cultural continuity(Hibadullah et al., 2018). The integration of technology not only aids preservation but also increases community participation in cultural heritage.Hibadullah et al.(2018)discuss how reward systems in digital, traditional games can engage users and encourage active participation among younger audiences, thus fostering a sense of community around cultural heritage. By creating interactive experiences, technology encourages collective engagement, which is crucial in maintaining the social dynamics associated with traditional games. In summary, digital technologies are pivotal in documenting, reviving, and preserving traditional games and cultural heritage narratives. These innovations offer valuable tools to increase accessibility and community engagement, ensuring that cultural heritage thrives in a rapidly changing digital landscape.Hypothesis 2: Use of Digital Technology Affects Behavior ChangeThe results show that the use of digital technology has a significant influence on behavior change. Adopting digital technology can change how individuals interact and behave in the context of the game. Previous studies have also emphasized that digital technology affects human behavior and social functioning, creating methodological innovations and new challenges in social research. In addition, other studies have found that the use of modern technology in the preservation of traditional stories can have both positive and negative impacts on society, suggesting that technology can change the way such stories are delivered and received(Gayatri et al., 2023; Zheng et al., 2024).The significant influence of digital technologies on social behaviorsand interactions has been widely documented in the literature. Adopting digital tools and platforms changes how individuals engage and interact in various contexts, including games. For example, researchKucker & Schneider(2024)suggests that the prevalence of digital media in young children's lives can adversely affect vocabulary acquisition; however, social interactions can mitigate this negative impact, reinforcing the importance of human relationships even in digital spaces.Kucker & Schneider(2024)emphasize the vital role of social interaction in counteracting the potential adverse consequences of digital technologies on children's developmental outcomes.In addition, the impact of digital storytelling on cultural narratives and behaviors has been highlighted in recent research.Aasback & Rokkum(2021)assign that technologies that facilitate storytelling preserve cultural heritage and influence how narratives are created and received in contemporary society. Similarly,Cahyani et al.(2023)underline that digital storytelling increases audience engagement through new forms of interactive media, thereby transforming traditional cultural representations. This evolution of storytelling through digital technologies reflects changes in content delivery and shifts in the social dynamics of how communities engage with their cultural heritage. Furthermore, modern technology's duality can produce positive and negative effects on community engagement. While the literature suggests that technology can increase engagement and accessibility to cultural stories, it can also dilute traditional narrative forms and social connections. Thus, a careful balance is needed in utilizing digital technologies to maintain artistic integrity while adapting to new social realities(Mo et al., 2024). The process of technology domestication during social work, as researched byAasback & Rokkum(2021), illustrates the broader implications of digital adoption in community contexts.Aasback & Rokkum(2021)Although established regulatory frameworks influence these changes, they argue that digital tools fundamentally reshape social interactions and service provision, enabling more nuanced relationships between individuals and institutions. Such transformations align with a broader societal shift towards digital platforms, where traditional forms of engagement are increasingly mediated by technology(Khrapov et al., 2022). In conclusion, while digital technologies present innovative opportunities to preserve cultural narratives and facilitate social interactions, they also challenge the authenticity and integrity of such interactions. This interplay between technology adoption and behavioral dynamics requires ongoing research to explore the various effects on community engagement and ensure that cultural heritage is preserved and communicated effectively in a rapidly evolving digital landscape.Hypothesis 3: Use of Digital Technology Affects Community ParticipationThis study found that the use of digital technology has a significant influence on community participation. This suggests that digital technology can increase individual involvement in communities associated with traditional games. For example, a well-designed game can serve as a tool for cultural preservation, allowing players to explore the history and traditions of a particularsociety, thus increasing community participation and engagement. In addition, digital technology has enabled the preservation of cultural heritage, making it more accessible and interactive, which in turn can increase community participation in cultural activities.The use of digital technology to enhance community participation has been a rapidly growing topic in research. Studies have shown that digital technologies can strengthen community engagement in cultural contexts, including traditional games. These technologies provide a means to preserve culture and facilitate broader social interactions between individuals within the community.van Deursen & Helsper(2015)demonstrated that digital engagement can increase participation in formal and informal political activities, which positively impacts the community as a whole. This aligns with research showing that traditional games integrated with digital technology allow players to delve deeper into their cultural history and traditions while improving social skills through interaction(Hadi et al., 2018; Harahap, 2023). In addition, digital technology also offers better access to cultural heritage, making it more interactive and accessible. Research shows that information and communication technologies provide citizens with opportunities to engage in broader participation processes, includingsocial engagement and political transformation(Haltofova, 2018). This contributes to the creation of digital platforms where communities can collaborate on cultural and social activities, which in turn promotes the strengthening of community identity(Wilding, 2012). In this context, traditional games that have been adapted into digital formats, such as app-based games, can serve as a bridge to preserve culture while increasing the participation of community members(Irmansyah et al., 2020). Furthermore, a study byHadi et al.(2018)showed that traditional games can be used as a medium for counseling guidance that can improve students' social skills, emphasizing the importance of interaction within the local cultural context. This reinforces the argument that the integration of traditional games with digital technology has the potential to contribute significantly to increased engagement and interaction within the community(Harahap, 2023). In this way, digital technology not only acts as a means of cultural preservation but also as a tool that facilitates the dissemination of knowledge and experience between community members.Finally, in increasing understanding and awareness of the importance of digitalization in the cultural context, digital technologies can expand the horizon for individuals to contribute to the community. By utilizing digital platforms, individuals can moreactively participate in cultural activities, which can help preserve and pass on cultural heritage to future generations(Fischl et al., 2017, 2020). Applying technology to such traditions can foster identity and enhance a sense of belonging in the broader community(Jia & Ye, 2024; Lussier-Desrochers et al., 2017).Hypothesis 4: Traditional Game Preservation Affects Community ParticipationThe results show that traditional game preservation significantly influences community participation. This suggests that preserving traditional games can increase community involvement in related activities. Studies on social competence through play activities found that traditional games can increase children's interaction, increasing their social competence. In addition, other studies have shown that traditional games can improve children's gross motor skills. In contrast, modern games can improve fine motor skills, suggesting that preserving traditional games can positively impact child development and community participation(Azhara & Sutapa, 2019).The preservation of traditional games has been shown to significantly influence community participation, which is recognized in various studies regarding the impact of games on children's social and physical development. Traditional games serve as a recreational tool and a means to enhance social interaction, motor skills, and community engagement. ResearchHasanah(2016)shows that traditional games can effectively develop young children's physical motor skills, which is an important aspect of their overall development. In a broader context, research byMahfud & Fahrizqi(2020)evealed that traditional sports can be a training model that helps students improve motor skills, which contributes to better social development.A study byRamadhani & Fauziah(2020)highlighted the relationship between traditional games and early childhood social and emotional skills, showing that engagement in these games can significantly improve children's social skill levels. This was indicated as an important factor in improving social interactions within the community, where children learn to collaborate and communicate effectively with each other. Furthermore, researchSutini(2018)showed that children's fine motor skills can be developed through traditional games, which is fundamental to their overall motor development. The motor skills built through traditional games can contribute to children's ability to participate in other community activities.Research byTanto & Sufyana(2020)also emphasizes the need for motor skills development in children through traditional games, providing evidence that participation in these games can positively impact children's physical health and their involvement in various social activities. This suggests that the preservation of traditional games should be a focus for parents and educators to enhance children's individual development and their participation in the community.Hypothesis 5: Behavior Change Affects Community ParticipationThis study found that behavior change has a significant influence on community participation. This suggests that changes in individuals' behavior, which may be influenced by digital technology, can increase their involvement in the community. For example, digital game-based learning has increased student engagement and motivation compared to traditional online activities. This suggests that behavior change facilitated by digital technology can increase participation in educational contexts. In addition, other studies have shown that digital games can directly impact cultural transmission, suggesting that behavioral changes associated with technology use can influence community participation in cultural activities(Cerezo-Pizarro et al., 2023; Nadeem et al., 2023).Research on behavior change's significant influence on community participation, particularly in educational and cultural contexts, is widely recognized in recent studies. Digital technologies play an important role in helping individuals adapt and increasetheir involvement in the community. For example, a study byMannayong et al.(2024)shows that digital transformation expands access to information and encourages more active community participation in public initiatives. This suggests that the use of technology in educational contexts, such as digital game-based learning, can increase student motivation and engagement, compared to conventional learning methods(Wahyudi et al., 2024). Furthermore, research byWahyudi et al.(2024)found that active learning technologies significantly increased student engagement and motivation, with interactivity as one of the positive aspects of technology-based learning. In the context of cultural transmission,Cerezo-Pizarro et al.(2023)found that digital games can effectively convey cultural values and influence how individuals engage in cultural activities in their communities.The study conducted byNadeem et al.(2023)confirms the importance of technology in facilitating active participation in cultural contexts, showing how behavioral changes triggered by technologies such as digital games increase community engagement. This situation creates opportunities for individuals to not only be recipients of information but also as active contributors, which is one of the main goals in developing broader community participation. Thus, behavioral change facilitated by digital technology contributes significantly to increased community participation in education and cultural development. The adoption of technology among individuals supports greater engagement and encourages more active contributions to community life.Digital technology plays an important role in documenting and preserving traditional games, especially in the modern era, where the younger generation is abandoning many traditional games. Through digitization, traditional games can be archived in various formats, such as video tutorials, interactive game applications, and online databases, allowing wider access for the community. Digitization also enables the reconstruction and simulation of traditional games in virtual or augmented reality, thus allowing for a more immersive gaming experience without losing the original essence of the game. In addition, digital technology enables cross-cultural collaboration in promoting and sharing traditional games through social media platforms and online communities that actively discuss traditional games from different regions. With digital documentation, traditional games can be accessed by the current generation and passed down to future generations in a more adaptive and engaging form.The integration of digital in traditional games has led to significant changes in player behaviorin terms of social engagement, ways of playing, and entertainment preferences. One of the main changes is the shift from physical to virtual interactions, where players who were previously accustomed to playing live in open spaces now participate more often in digital versions of the game. This can reduce the social aspects of traditional games, such as teamwork and face-to-face communication. However, it can also increase engagement in the wider digital community. In addition, digital integration has alsoimproved players' cognitive aspects by providing new challenges in the form of more complex game strategies. However, in some cases, excessive use of technology can also lead to decreased physical activity and dependence on technology, which changes the play patterns of younger generations from physical activities to screen-based activities. Therefore, digital integration must be balanced with strategies that ensure that traditional games retain cultural values and social interactions</p>

The findings of this research confirm that digital technology plays a crucial role in preserving traditional game culture, influencing behavioral changes among players, and enhancing community participation. The integration of digital technology facilitates the documentation and revitalization of traditional games, ensuring their accessibility for future generations. However, it also transforms player behavior by shifting interaction patterns from physical to virtual engagement, altering cognitive engagement, and modifying gaming habits. Additionally, digital adaptation significantly influences community involvement, providing new opportunities for participation while posing challenges to intergenerational interaction. To maximize the benefits of digital integration in traditional games, future efforts should focus on balancing digital accessibility with cultural authenticity, incorporating interactive educational tools to maintain intergenerational knowledge transfer, and fostering community-driven digital platforms that encourage virtual and physical participation. Further research is recommended to explore long-term cultural implications and to develop frameworks that ensure the sustainable coexistence of digital and traditional gaming practices.</p>