GROUP COMMUNICATION IN A MOBILE LEGENDS ESPORTS TEAM DURING THE MPL INDONESIA COMPETITION: A CASE STUDY OF DEWA UNITED ESPORTS

Abstract

This study examines the role of group communication in supporting the performance of a Mobile Legends esports team, specifically Dewa United Esports in the Mobile Legends Professional League (MPL) Indonesia. Employing a qualitative approach and a case study method, this research seeks to gain an in-depth understanding of communication dynamics within a professional esports team. Data were collected through observations, semi-structured interviews, and documentation of team activities during the preparation, competition, and post-match evaluation stages. The analysis was guided by the Functional Group Communication Theory, which emphasizes four primary functions of group communication: problem analysis, goal setting, identification of alternatives, and evaluation of consequences. The findings indicate that group communication plays a strategic role in enabling the team to interpret game situations, align strategies, formulate alternative courses of action, and evaluate implemented decisions. Within Dewa United Esports, communication functions not only as a medium for information exchange but also as a central mechanism for collective decision-making in a dynamic and highly competitive environment. The study also identified several communication barriers, including emotional pressure during matches, communication overload during critical moments, and differences in situational interpretation among players. These barriers were addressed through the division of communication roles, the use of shared terminology, and continuous evaluation practices. The findings reinforce the relevance of Functional Group Communication Theory in explaining communication dynamics within professional esports and highlight the importance of high-quality group communication in supporting team coordination and performance.