PERILAKU KOMUNIKASI INTERPERSONAL PEMAIN GAME ONLINE (STUDI PADA PEMAIN GAME PUBG MOBILE TIM NEW ERA)

The development of digital technology has changed the way humans interact, including through online games, which have now become an important part of social life, especially among young people. One very popular game is PUBG Mobile, which demands teamwork and effective communication to achieve victory. This study aims to understand the interpersonal communication behavior of the New Era Team, a PUBG Mobile gaming community in Kupang City. Using a descriptive qualitative approach with a case study method and a constructivist paradigm, data were obtained through observation, in-depth interviews, and documentation. The results show that interpersonal communication within the team is formed through symbolic interaction, the use of verbal and non-verbal symbols, and the formation of social identities and roles. Verbal communication is considered more dominant because it is more effective in conveying instructions during the game. In addition, in-game interactions strengthen emotional bonds between players outside the virtual space. The researchers concluded that interpersonal communication in online gaming communities plays a crucial role in building group solidarity.