The Benefits of Video Gaming and Computer Games

One of the fastest growing segments in the technology market is gaming. People of all ages from all over the world spend a lot of their leisure time playing video games. In North America alone, computer and video game sales reached $65 billion in 2021. This huge money-spinning industry is creating a number of millionaires every year. This is why millions of people from all walks of life try their hand at gaming.

gaming

A video or computer game is typically an interactive game that entails interaction with a human user interface or machine, including a keyboard, mouse, joystick, or gamepad, to produce visual output on a screen. Many people who are not involved with gaming actually think of video games as a form of entertainment rather than a way to relax and de-stress. However, studies have shown that video and computer games can provide many therapeutic benefits to people of all ages.

The common denominator between people who enjoy gaming and those who don’t is that both groups improve their cognitive skills. In particular, experts have noted that gaming can be beneficial for those who have attention deficit disorder (ADD). The reason why ADD is often worsened by long periods of inattention is because it prevents the brain from filtering out distractions that cause the patient to become easily distracted. The result is that people with ADD find it difficult to concentrate on tasks at hand. As gaming provides a distraction-free environment in which players can concentrate, it has been found to be particularly effective for patients with ADHD.

Other people can benefit from video games just as readily as those who don’t. For example, certain studies have shown that gamers can improve their problem solving skills and memory by playing certain types of games. The improvements made by these people can then transfer over to other areas of their life and their performance at work improves as well.

However, some experts argue that too much gaming may be detrimental to the brain. Age related vision problems have been found to be more prevalent in people who play too many video games. This can lead to more wear and tear on the eyes and a greater risk of permanent damage. This can eventually lead to blindness. Other eye problems such as glaucoma and cataracts can also develop as a result of the abuse of gaming.

Some companies have taken notice of these potential side effects and removed some of the more damaging games from the market. For example, one of the most popular online games, Grand Theft Auto, allows players to inflict damage to another player’s character. However, other companies such as Microsoft have successfully removed this feature due to its negative influence on children.