How gamers benefit in various ways from playing video games

The gaming industry is continuing to build its consumer base. Those gamers are finding benefits in a variety of ways.

Some are able to use sports games to make predictions today for different professional events that are going on. That is the beauty in some of the simulations and as the sports betting markets and fantasy sports grow, that will continue to be a popular method of gaming.

But the reality is gaming impacts so many elements of a person’s well-being. The fact that the consumer base is continually growing due to the retention of adults as they grow is good news for gaming companies, which have boomed over the last two decades.

A mental workout

Those who game have so much to focus on depending on the game, and that brain activity is good in moderation. Of course, the desire to continually get better leads to those becoming more persistent. 

It can translate into school or work with added confidence and ways to bounce back from mistakes that are made. Studies show that playing video games will also increase the gray matter in one’s brain.

Gamers also develop better social skills. There are learned behaviors through offline game modes, but those who play online are able to communicate with others. It actually forces communication in some instances because of the team elements to these games.

Developing those teamwork skills will go a long way, too. Being able to meet and speak with people from different cultures from the comfort of one’s home will pay off over time.

Lasting friendships

While the development of the internet was key for connecting friends with voice chat parties, it has also impacted the lives of others in ways nobody could have predicted. There are countless videos and stories of people becoming lifelong friends after playing video games together over the years.

People will eventually gather in person for the first time and have gifts for one another. It is one of the great surprises for the gaming industry and is something that should not be overlooked.

Becoming healthier

While a lot of games are meant to be played sitting down, various titles offer the ability for movement. Using a Wii console or an old Xbox Kinect gives gamers an opportunity to get a workout in, or at least exert a little energy while playing their games. It was a fascinating counterargument to those who said video games were bad for people’s health.

But that continues as virtual reality grows. Game developers are able to use real-world locations as the gamers go through a simulation, which allows for opportunities to be active while playing.

Playing video games makes for better heart rhythms, a sign that they are a great stress reliever. The vision of gamers is also improved and the dexterity of those who use controllers and hand-eye coordination with the brain waves are additional benefits.

A closer bond

When the COVID-19 pandemic swept across the globe and limited people to their homes, it created another boom for the gaming industry which has continually expanded its consumer base. Being able to connect with others online and do it in a safe way to not risk contracting the deadly virus was great.

The games during that time were also great. The typical sports games continued their releases since the industry was ahead of its time in being able to use an online store and download games after purchases. There were also free games that were battle royale styles that really captivated the gaming consumers. It connected people in so many ways and forged relationships in a time when it was difficult to be with people.

Feature image by Tima Miroshnichenko