Pemanfaatan Fitur Komunikasi Virtual Pada Satu Match Game Mobile Legends (Studi Pada Kelompok Game Mobile Legends)

The development of digital technology has created new spaces for interaction through virtual communication, including within the game Mobile Legends: Bang Bang, which requires intense coordination between players. This descriptive qualitative study analyzes the utilization of virtual communication features (Quick Chat, Text Chat, and Emotes) by players within a single game session among a group of familiar teammates (premade team). Through In-depth Interviews, Participant Observation, and Digital Documentation—with validity tested via triangulation—the study found that communication patterns are dominated by the Quick Chat and Ping features. These features are prioritized due to their high efficiency in delivering tactical and coordinative instructions (such as attacking objectives or issuing warnings) within a time-sensitive and competitive gaming context, aiming to minimize delays and misunderstandings. Meanwhile, Text Chat is only used for detailed coordination at the beginning of the game or during lulls, and Emotes serve as brief emotional communication (provocation or support). In conclusion, the utilization of virtual communication features in MLBB is tactical-pragmatic and directly reflects the need for rapid decision-making within the dynamic environment of a MOBA game.