Coordination Game
Updated 2026-08-05
INTRODUCTION
English translation pending.
CORE DEFINITION
A class of games in which payoffs are highest when players select matching strategies, such as two drivers both choosing the same side of the road. Several Nash equilibria typically exist, and the players' problem is agreeing on one rather than competing against each other. The core claim is that conventions and standards have value independent of their intrinsic quality. The qualification is that the chosen equilibrium may be inferior to an available alternative, and switching is costly.
SCAFFOLDING EFFECT
Reduce cognitive load
- Use Convention Value: Recognize that agreement itself creates value, separate from which option is chosen. - Use Standard Seeding: Establish a convention early, since the first widely adopted standard tends to lock in. - Use Switching Cost: Weigh the cost of moving to a better standard against the benefit of the improvement.
Anchor fast decisions
When payoffs depend on matching, players coordinate on whatever option they expect others to choose, and expectations become self-fulfilling. Once one option is widely adopted, each individual's best response is to keep choosing it, so the equilibrium persists even if a better option exists. This is why conventions and standards are sticky and why early adoption matters more than technical superiority.
MINIMUM ACTION
In progress 0/1Practice this model in one real situation:
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Source support: Explicit
- en.wikipedia.orghttps://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Coordination_gameverified
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