Manipulation is, ironically, a loaded word. The primary differences between 'manipulation' and the subtle behavioral clues we give to others we communicate with

Manipulation is, ironically, a loaded word. The primary differences between 'manipulation' and the subtle behavioral clues we give to others we communicate with is that the latter is generally done unconsciously and thus not based on testing and intent. This applies to games as well, as in this case. The design of your UI is going to influence your user base, so why is it a bad thing to try to ensure that it influences them in a positive way?