Video games have been a staple in homes for decades. Though their popularity has ebbed and flowed over the years, there’s no doubt that they continue to entertain and engage people of all ages. What are the benefits of playing video games, you ask? 

That’s what we aim to explore in this post. Whether you’re a seasoned gamer or just starting out, here are some reasons why you should keep playing.

10 Incredible Benefits of Playing Video Games

Let’s have a look at these fabulous benefits of playing video games.

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1. Improves Coordination

You might not think that playing video games can help improve your coordination, but it’s true.

According to studies in China, when you’re constantly reacting to what’s happening on the screen and making split-second decisions, you’re actually improving your hand-eye coordination.

2. Sharpens Your Memory

Not only does playing video games improve your short-term memory, but it can also help improve your long-term memory. One study even found that people who played action-based video games had increased grey matter in the hippocampus, which is responsible for long-term memory.

3. Increases Problem-Solving Skills

Video games are all about problem-solving. From figuring out the best way to defeat a boss to navigating your way through a tricky puzzle, video games require you to think quickly and come up with creative solutions.

4. Enhances multitasking ability

While playing a video game, you’re constantly managing different tasks simultaneously. You might be keeping an eye on your health bar while also watching for enemy attacks and trying to find the right item to use. This constant need to juggle multiple tasks can actually help improve your multitasking skills in real life.

5. Boosts Your Brainpower

Research has shown that playing video games can actually improve your brain function. One study found that people who played action-based games had better attention, visuospatial skills, and reaction times than those who didn’t play any games at all.

6. Reduces Stress

Sometimes, all you need is a little bit of escapism to reduce stress. When you’re playing a video game, you can forget about your troubles and just focus on the task at hand. In fact, one study found that people who played games for just 20 minutes had lower levels of the stress hormone cortisol.

7. Improves Mood

Not only can playing video games help reduce stress, but they can also improve your mood. When you’re focused on the game and accomplishing goals, you’ll naturally start to feel more positive. In fact, one study found that people who played “Crossy Road” had a boost in mood and felt more alert and positive after playing.

8. Lowers Risk of Alzheimer’s

Alzheimer’s is a serious degenerative disease that affects millions of people around the world. However, playing video games may help lower your risk of developing Alzheimer’s. People who played brain-training games had a lower risk of developing the disease than those who didn’t play any games at all.

9. Connects You With Others

In a world that’s increasingly digital, it can be easy to feel isolated. However, playing video games can help you connect with other people. There are now many games that allow you to play with friends or even strangers from all over the world.

10. It’s Just Plain Fun!

Last but not least, one of the best reasons to play video games is simply because they’re fun! Whether you’re playing a casual game on your phone or an immersive RPG, video games can provide hours of entertainment.

Conclusion

Although playing video games has been traditionally seen as a waste of time, research now suggests that there are many cognitive and social benefits to playing video games. These benefits include improved hand-eye coordination, better problem solving skills, increased focus, and strengthened relationships. 

So the next time you’re feeling guilty about spending too much time on your favorite game, just remember that you’re actually doing your brain a favor. Do you have any other reasons why video gaming is good for you?