I think women act confused when they’re personally confused or don’t have a clear sense of how they feel about something; either way not good for a man if he’s interested. So generally if a woman is ‘playing games’ or seemingly uncertain, her interest just isn’t peaked high enough with that individual.
When a woman has interest in a guy, it’s obvious to everyone. But I don’t actually think it is beneficial for women to have the man confused, if she’s interested.. because who is going to take the initiative? She wants the man to do that, so being clear with her intentions once she knows is actually self serving and honestly more fun for both. It’s quite natural.
Granted, there are always women who just want to manipulate and play games for a sense of control over their lives. But they are bottom-dwelling and should just be dismissed and avoided.
If you’re a man, spending time with a woman, who is always confused, then that’s on you, as that’s giving your autonomy away.