Benefits

Benefits to the Gamer

A number of studies regarding the effects of video games on the individual have detailed the benefits of playing video games on both our mind and our vision. This seems contrary to the common belief that video games are detrimental to us.

One study performed by researchers from the Max Planck Institute for Human Development and Charité University Medicine St. Hedwig-Krankenhuas had one group of individuals play Super Mario 64 for 30 minutes a day for two months and another group not play video games. MRI scans revealed the group that played video games displayed increased brain volume of the right hippocampus, right prefrontal cortex, cerebellum, and increased grey matter. These are the regions responsible for memory formation, strategic planning, muscle control, and spatial navigation. Grey matter is also correlated with memory formation.

In another study by scientists from the University of Rochester, one group of 18- to 25-year-olds played fast-paced shooters Call of Duty 2 and Unreal Tournament, while another played the slower-paced The Sims 2. After playing for 50 hours, the participants were asked to answer a question related to an image on a screen while completing an auditory task. The group that played the action games were 25% faster at making decisions — while being right just as often. According to the scientists, the action games appeared to help rewire the players’ brains to become more efficient at collecting visual and auditory information. These effects lasted for several months. Another discovery from the study showed the action game players became 58% better at perceiving differences in contrast, including a 43% improvement in discerning shades of grey. Ultimately, the effects of the video games improved skills including multitasking, driving, tracking objects, and navigating.

Other benefits associated with playing video games include the development of critical-thinking skills, problem-solving, and helping overall happiness in our lives. Essentially, we are learning that video games offer more to us than just entertainment. These developments have led to the incorporation of video games such as Minecraft into the classroom. Video games are stimulating and beneficial for our minds and eyes. Who knows what benefits we will unlock next?

Benefits to the Community

Image result for extra life games done quick    Image result for extra life

Gamers also give back to the community. One set of examples, is the Games Done Quick charity marathons. Held bi-annually, Games Done Quick brings together some of the best speed-runners in the community to put on a week-long, non-stop marathon in the name of charity. Over the course of its 16 marathons, Games Done Quick events have raised over $10 million for the Prevent Cancer Foundation and Doctors Without Borders. Similar, smaller events are organized across the country by another group called Extra Life. Extra Life allows individuals or groups of gamers to run their own 24 hour-long gaming marathons to raise money for Children’s Miracle Network Hospitals. Extra Life marathons have raised over $30 million since its start in 2008.