The Impact of Mobile Legends and Free Fire Online Games on Interest in Playing Football Among Youth in Kampung Bugis Village, Biau District, Buol Regency

Abstract

This study aims to (1) determine the impact of playing Mobile Legends on interest in playing football, (2) determine the impact of playing Free Fire on interest in playing football, and (3) understand the difference in impact between Mobile Legends and Free Fire on interest in playing football among the younger generation in Kampung Bugis Village, Biau District, Buol Regency. This study used a quantitative descriptive method, with a population and sample consisting of 30 young people aged 15–25 years. The sampling technique utilized total sampling. Data collection techniques were carried out through observation, questionnaires, and documentation. Data were analyzed using quantitative descriptive analysis with percentages and multiple linear regression. The results showed that the Mobile Legends variable obtained an average value of 80.4%, while the Free Fire variable obtained an average value of 67.2%. Interest in playing football obtained an average value of 69%. Based on multiple linear regression analysis, the regression coefficient for Mobile Legends was 0.52, the regression coefficient for Free Fire was 0.64, and the constant was 52.61. The regression coefficient for Free Fire was larger than that for Mobile Legends in this research model. The findings indicate that Mobile Legends and Free Fire games can have both positive and negative impacts. Positive impacts include entertainment, virtual social interaction, strategic ability, coordination, and reflexes, whereas excessive use has the potential to reduce time spent on physical activities, including playing football.