Video games are a billion dollar industry. Many people around the world play video games in their leisure time. However, parents are often concerned about the negative effects of video games. Addiction to video games can cause eye problems and obesity; but if they can be played within certain limits, they have many health and other benefits.
Physical activity
Many people think that people have to sit in front of the computer for a long time in order to play video games. But modern video games, like the Wii, allow gamers to use hand and leg movements. There will therefore be a sway of the bats or target objects. These are good physical activities and will not cause obesity.
Improves memory and focus
Video games, especially driving games, can improve memory and concentration. Driving fast while simultaneously looking at the directions of the road can improve both short and long term memory and concentration. People get better at multitasking.
Improves decision-making ability
In fast paced games, players have to think very quickly. It also helps people in real life. They can get a better idea of what’s going on around them and make decisions faster. In a video game, people have to make a decision at different stages of the game. Thus, in real life, their decision-making ability improves. Action games are useful in this case.
Improves vision
According to a study conducted at the University of Rochester, it is found that video games can improve vision. It makes gamers color sensitive and they can recognize color contrast very easily. First person shooters are good for improving vision.
Helps relieve pain
People with burns, in particular, can get rid of their pain by playing video games. Video games shift the attention of patients and they enter a different world forgetting their pain.
One study found that playing video games helps surgeons perform laparoscopic surgery. This procedure requires inserting a tube into the patient’s body and looking for signs of disease. It requires good coordination between the eye and the hand. By playing video games, it is possible to master this skill.
Playing video games can make you a better person too. In video games, you fight with the wrong people and make informed decisions. So people know good and bad. Instead of preventing children from playing video games, we should limit their playing time. That way they won’t have any side effects from video games.
