How to Keep Players Engaged (Without Being Evil)

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hbzGO_Qonu0

engagement pacing intensity difficulty core loop goals

How to keep players engaged, without addictive evil design? Pacing (varying the intensity) of the pillars (core gameplay) such as alternating puzzles with action or cutscenes; anticipation and foreshadowing (what's behind that giant door?), mysteries (including narrative), long-term goals like collectables or map completion, and compelling challenge (not too easy or difficult)