{"id":501442,"date":"2023-10-09T10:00:00","date_gmt":"2023-10-09T08:00:00","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/gymbeam.com\/blog\/?p=501442"},"modified":"2025-06-27T11:03:59","modified_gmt":"2025-06-27T09:03:59","slug":"surprising-benefits-of-playing-games-that-will-improve-your-life","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/gymbeam.com\/blog\/surprising-benefits-of-playing-games-that-will-improve-your-life\/","title":{"rendered":"Surprising Benefits of Playing Games That Will Improve Your Life"},"content":{"rendered":"<div id=\"ez-toc-container\" class=\"ez-toc-v2_0_72 ez-toc-wrap-left counter-hierarchy ez-toc-counter ez-toc-custom ez-toc-container-direction\">\n<div class=\"ez-toc-title-container\">\n<p class=\"ez-toc-title\" style=\"cursor:inherit\">Table of Contents<\/p>\n<span class=\"ez-toc-title-toggle\"><\/span><\/div>\n<nav><ul class='ez-toc-list ez-toc-list-level-1 ' ><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-1\" href=\"https:\/\/gymbeam.com\/blog\/surprising-benefits-of-playing-games-that-will-improve-your-life\/#At_what_level_does_healthy_gaming_begin_and_end\" title=\"At what level does healthy gaming begin and end?\">At what level does healthy gaming begin and end?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-2\" href=\"https:\/\/gymbeam.com\/blog\/surprising-benefits-of-playing-games-that-will-improve-your-life\/#Benefits_of_Playing_Games\" title=\"Benefits of Playing Games\">Benefits of Playing Games<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-3\" href=\"https:\/\/gymbeam.com\/blog\/surprising-benefits-of-playing-games-that-will-improve-your-life\/#Conclusion\" title=\"Conclusion\">Conclusion<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/nav><\/div>\n\n<p>The ever-growing gaming industry now enjoys an audience of millions around the world. Whether you play for fun or at <strong>a professional e-sports level,<\/strong> gaming provides great relaxation and various unforgettable experiences in virtual worlds. At the same time, it faces frequent prejudices from the surrounding environment, with <strong>many people perceiving gaming as a waste of time. <\/strong>Or as something that will never do anyone any good.&nbsp;However, this is only one view and it mostly comes from those&nbsp;<strong>who do not know how to play games or whose last game was Super Mario on an old Vietnamese console twenty years ago.&nbsp;<\/strong>Since then, the gaming world has made tremendous strides, offering more than ever before. <strong>It is not just entertainment; it can also be a source of income and various benefits.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:20px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading is-style-default\">In this article, you will learn about the benefits of playing games in the following areas:<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-group is-nowrap is-layout-flex wp-container-core-group-is-layout-ad2f72ca wp-block-group-is-layout-flex\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-buttons is-layout-flex wp-block-buttons-is-layout-flex\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-button\"><a class=\"wp-block-button__link has-orange-background-color has-background wp-element-button\" href=\"#brain\" style=\"border-radius:0px\">Brain<\/a><\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-buttons is-layout-flex wp-block-buttons-is-layout-flex\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-button\"><a class=\"wp-block-button__link has-orange-background-color has-background wp-element-button\" href=\"#sensorimotor-skills\" style=\"border-radius:0px\">Sensorimotor Skills<\/a><\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-buttons is-layout-flex wp-block-buttons-is-layout-flex\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-button\"><a class=\"wp-block-button__link has-orange-background-color has-background wp-element-button\" href=\"#fine-motor-skills\" style=\"border-radius:0px\">Fine Motor Skills<\/a><\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-buttons is-layout-flex wp-block-buttons-is-layout-flex\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-button\"><a class=\"wp-block-button__link has-orange-background-color has-background wp-element-button\" href=\"#eyesight\" style=\"border-radius:0px\">Eyesight<\/a><\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-buttons is-layout-flex wp-block-buttons-is-layout-flex\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-button\"><a class=\"wp-block-button__link has-orange-background-color has-background wp-element-button\" href=\"#physical-fitness\" style=\"border-radius:0px\">Physical Fitness<\/a><\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-buttons is-layout-flex wp-block-buttons-is-layout-flex\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-button\"><a class=\"wp-block-button__link has-orange-background-color has-background wp-element-button\" href=\"#mental-health\" style=\"border-radius:0px\">Mental Health<\/a><\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-buttons is-layout-flex wp-block-buttons-is-layout-flex\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-button\"><a class=\"wp-block-button__link has-orange-background-color has-background wp-element-button\" href=\"#cognitive-functions\" style=\"border-radius:0px\">Cognitive Functions<\/a><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:20px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-group is-nowrap is-layout-flex wp-container-core-group-is-layout-ad2f72ca wp-block-group-is-layout-flex\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-buttons is-layout-flex wp-block-buttons-is-layout-flex\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-button\"><a class=\"wp-block-button__link has-orange-background-color has-background wp-element-button\" href=\"#reaction-time\" style=\"border-radius:0px\">Reaction Time<\/a><\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-buttons is-layout-flex wp-block-buttons-is-layout-flex\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-button\"><a class=\"wp-block-button__link has-orange-background-color has-background wp-element-button\" href=\"#problem-solving\" style=\"border-radius:0px\">Problem Solving<\/a><\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-buttons is-layout-flex wp-block-buttons-is-layout-flex\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-button\"><a class=\"wp-block-button__link has-orange-background-color has-background wp-element-button\" href=\"#socialising-and-teamwork\" style=\"border-radius:0px\">Socialising and Teamwork<\/a><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:20px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<p>We will support these mentioned benefits with scientific opinions in the form of various studies. So, sit back comfortably, press START, and let yourself be carried away on the wave of this playful article.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:20px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1124\" height=\"749\" src=\"https:\/\/gymbeam.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/10\/iStock-1446460213-1124x749.jpg\" alt=\"Surprising Benefits of Playing Games That Will Improve Your Life\" class=\"wp-image-500090\" title=\"Surprising Benefits of Playing Games That Will Improve Your Life\" srcset=\"https:\/\/gymbeam.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/10\/iStock-1446460213-1124x749.jpg 1124w, https:\/\/gymbeam.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/10\/iStock-1446460213-400x267.jpg 400w, https:\/\/gymbeam.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/10\/iStock-1446460213.jpg 1254w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1124px) 100vw, 1124px\" \/><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"At_what_level_does_healthy_gaming_begin_and_end\"><\/span>At what level does healthy gaming begin and end?<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Before we begin, it must be said that not all gaming is the same. Not every session in front of a computer or console brings benefits that you can&#8217;t live without. It&#8217;s more a case of whether playing games recharges or drains your health bar, as it <strong>depends on the individual approach of the player themselves. <\/strong>This can be either healthy or unhealthy, where gaming leads to neglecting other aspects of life. When the metaphorical gamepad is held from the wrong end, a player can fall into a gaming addiction. They then <strong>neglect responsibilities, forget about other hobbies, or have problems at school or work, <\/strong>the source of which is excessive time spent gaming. They only think about when they will finally defeat that tough boss, reach level 20, accumulate enough XP, get to the next checkpoint, or unlock a dream weapon with which they will dominate every virtual battle. <span class=\"tadv-color\" style=\"color:#ff6600\"><sup>[1]<\/sup><\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:20px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<p>In this article, we will focus on the benefits of gaming that result from a healthy approach. With a healthy approach, instead of getting constantly hit, you can find some interesting loot or gain some extra mana. In real life, this means <strong>gaming is just one of many aspects of your life,<\/strong> leaving you plenty of time to do other things. This way, <strong>gaming can be a positive habit that doesn&#8217;t negatively affect your health, personal life, or work.<\/strong> <span class=\"tadv-color\" style=\"color: #ff6600;\"><sup>[2]<\/sup><\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:20px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<p>Gaming can even have an educational character. This is a specific segment of games that are used, for example, by students or employees in certain professions, such as police officers, medics, or firefighters. The role of these games is to <strong>teach players specific things in an interactive way. <\/strong>A good example is a driving simulator in a driving school. This virtually gives driving course participants their first, most basic experience behind the wheel before they get into a real car. Educational games also include the <strong>popular Duolingo app, designed for learning various languages such as English, Italian, or French.<\/strong> In the case of children, Dragon Box, for example, is popular, as it immerses them in the world of geometry in a fun way. <span class=\"tadv-color\" style=\"color:#ff6600\"><sup>[3]<\/sup><\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:20px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>If you are interested in what gaming can look like on a more serious level, read our article <a aria-label=\" (opens in a new tab)\" class=\"ek-link\" href=\"https:\/\/gymbeam.com\/blog\/what-is-esports-and-what-does-the-world-of-virtual-athletes-look-like\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\"><strong>What Is eSports and What Does the World of Virtual Athletes Look Like?<\/strong><\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>If the topic of gaming approaches intrigues you further, don&#8217;t miss our article on <a class=\"ek-link\" href=\"https:\/\/gymbeam.com\/blog\/healthy-and-unhealthy-approach-to-gaming-what-is-the-difference-between-a-casual-gamer-and-an-esports-player\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" aria-label=\"(opens in a new tab)\"><strong>Healthy and Unhealthy Gaming Approaches: What Sets a Regular Player Apart from an E-Sports Player?<\/strong><\/a><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:20px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1124\" height=\"749\" src=\"https:\/\/gymbeam.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/10\/iStock-1287493837-1124x749.jpg\" alt=\"What Is Healthy Gaming?\" class=\"wp-image-500106\" title=\"What Is Healthy Gaming?\" srcset=\"https:\/\/gymbeam.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/10\/iStock-1287493837-1124x749.jpg 1124w, https:\/\/gymbeam.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/10\/iStock-1287493837-400x267.jpg 400w, https:\/\/gymbeam.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/10\/iStock-1287493837.jpg 1254w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1124px) 100vw, 1124px\" \/><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Benefits_of_Playing_Games\"><\/span>Benefits of Playing Games<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>You can, however, find many more educational games with different focuses, which are regularly used by pilots, for example. This is not just about flight simulators, but also other commercial games for regular players that <strong>bring them better reflexes and various other benefits.<\/strong> We will discuss these below.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:20px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"brain\">1. Increased Gray Matter Volume<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>The wider public often unfairly perceives players as clumsy geeks in greasy glasses with acne on their faces. This makes the gaming community all the more pleased by a 2015 study published on the Scientific Reports platform. Researchers from the University of Electronic Science and Technology of China and Macquarie University in Sydney looked at gamers using magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scans. Specifically, they <strong>analysed the brains of 27 professional<\/strong> e-sports players who have successes from championships in League of Legends or DOTA2 under their belt.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:20px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<p>They compared the scans with the brain activity of casual gamers, i.e., recreational players. The result is that <strong>regular competitive gaming at a professional level increases the amount of gray matter in the brain.<\/strong> Gray matter is responsible for <strong>controlling muscles, sensory perception, intelligence, planning, emotions, decision-making, and other cognitive functions.<\/strong> Having more gray matter can make these functions sharper compared to a group of non-gamers. <span class=\"tadv-color\" style=\"color: #ff6600;\">[4] [20]<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:20px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n    <link href=\"https:\/\/gymbeam.com\/blog\/wp-content\/themes\/wp-gymbeam-blog-theme\/css\/vue\/index.css\" rel=\"preload\" as=\"style\">\n    <link href=\"https:\/\/gymbeam.com\/blog\/wp-content\/themes\/wp-gymbeam-blog-theme\/js\/vue\/chunk-vendors.js\" rel=\"preload\" as=\"script\">\n    <link href=\"https:\/\/gymbeam.com\/blog\/wp-content\/themes\/wp-gymbeam-blog-theme\/js\/vue\/index.js\" rel=\"preload\" as=\"script\">\n    <link data-no-optimize=\"1\" href=\"https:\/\/gymbeam.com\/blog\/wp-content\/themes\/wp-gymbeam-blog-theme\/css\/vue\/index.css\" rel=\"stylesheet\">\n\n    <h2>\n        You might be interested in these products:    <\/h2>\n\n    <div data-app=\"recommended\" data-products=\"74341,69022,69016,72673,73747,73669,74347,69760\" ><\/div>\n\n    <script data-no-optimize=\"1\" src=\"https:\/\/gymbeam.com\/blog\/wp-content\/themes\/wp-gymbeam-blog-theme\/js\/vue\/chunk-vendors.js\"><\/script>\n    <script data-no-optimize=\"1\" src=\"https:\/\/gymbeam.com\/blog\/wp-content\/themes\/wp-gymbeam-blog-theme\/js\/vue\/index.js\"><\/script>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:20px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading is-style-default\" id=\"sensorimotor-skills\">2. Improved Sensory-Motor Skills<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>We use sensory-motor skills when <strong>coordination between our vision and our motor skills is necessary.<\/strong> Typical examples include cycling or writing. Sensory-motor skills also influence <strong>muscle tone and the ability to perceive our body in relation to other objects in space.<\/strong> Increasing levels of sensory-motor skills can elevate us from a basic level to an expert level in a specific area. It also reflects <strong>how effectively we can perform specific tasks, perhaps even without having to think about them for long.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:20px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<p>Well, one of the things that can support sensorimotor skills turns out to be playing games. Specifically, action games such as Call of Duty or Counter-Strike. A study led by psychologists from the University of Toronto followed two groups of players. The first played <strong>first-person shooter games for six months, for at least 2 hours every day.<\/strong> The second group consisted of people who don&#8217;t play games, or only do so very rarely.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:20px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<p>Participants in the study were instructed to keep a small green cursor in the centre of a white square that moved repetitively across the screen. This task required good coordination between vision and hand movement. By the end of the study, <strong>the gamers achieved better results and were significantly more accurate in keeping the cursor within the target area.<\/strong> <span class=\"tadv-color\" style=\"color: #ff6600;\">[5]<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:20px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1124\" height=\"632\" src=\"https:\/\/gymbeam.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/10\/iStock-1448738634-1124x632.jpg\" alt=\"Improved Sensory-Motor Skills\" class=\"wp-image-500124\" title=\"Improved Sensory-Motor Skills\" srcset=\"https:\/\/gymbeam.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/10\/iStock-1448738634-1124x632.jpg 1124w, https:\/\/gymbeam.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/10\/iStock-1448738634-400x225.jpg 400w, https:\/\/gymbeam.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/10\/iStock-1448738634.jpg 1365w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1124px) 100vw, 1124px\" \/><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\n<div style=\"height:20px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"fine-motor-skills\">3. Enhancing Manual Skills through Fine Motor Skills<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Most games are controlled using a joystick, keyboard, or mouse. Players gradually learn the order of actions and when to press specific keys. This activity has proven to be beneficial for manual dexterity. In a 2007 study, young aspiring surgeons <strong>who played video games regularly or at least 3 hours per week were compared to their non-gaming or &#8220;noob&#8221; colleagues.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:20px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<p>Both groups were evaluated in laparoscopic surgery and suturing. The results showed that surgeons who played games for at least 3 hours per week made 37% fewer errors and were 27% faster in procedures. For regular gamers, the results were even better, with a <strong>47% lower error rate and a 39% increase in speed.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:20px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<p>Video games can be an interesting and practical tool that can help develop laparoscopic surgical skills. The support of fine motor skills or manual dexterity can also be appreciated in other professions such as auto mechanics, hairdressers, tailors, and more. In everyday life, it can come in handy when you need to thread a needle, assemble small LEGO pieces, play games on a small mobile screen without using a gamepad, or fasten a minimalist necklace to your partner. <span class=\"tadv-color\" style=\"color: #ff6600;\">[6]<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:20px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1124\" height=\"632\" src=\"https:\/\/gymbeam.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/10\/iStock-1010650818-1124x632.jpg\" alt=\"Enhancing Manual Skills through Fine Motor Skills\" class=\"wp-image-500141\" title=\"Enhancing Manual Skills through Fine Motor Skills\" srcset=\"https:\/\/gymbeam.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/10\/iStock-1010650818-1124x632.jpg 1124w, https:\/\/gymbeam.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/10\/iStock-1010650818-400x225.jpg 400w, https:\/\/gymbeam.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/10\/iStock-1010650818.jpg 1365w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1124px) 100vw, 1124px\" \/><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"eyesight\">4. Improved Contrast Sensitivity<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Modern 3D games often require good orientation in the surrounding environment, which can gradually level up players&#8217; spatial awareness in real life. This assertion is supported by a study from the University of Rochester, claiming that <strong>first-person shooter games enhance the spatial vision of players in the real world.<\/strong> Gamers also exhibit better contrast sensitivity, which determines how well a person sees. The study participants were divided into two groups.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:20px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<p>The first group played <strong>Unreal Tournament 2004 and Call of Duty 2, while the second dedicated themselves to The Sims.<\/strong> The volunteers played for 50 hours over 9 weeks. At the end, it was shown that the <strong>action game players were 43% better at distinguishing subtle shades of grey.<\/strong> In the case of The Sims, the research participants did not show any improvement. Despite many concerns that playing games worsens eyesight, this activity does not necessarily have to be harmful and also has its advantages. If you would like to do a similar test yourself, you can try<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:20px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"physical-fitness\">5. Promoting Physical Fitness<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>You might be raising an eyebrow at this point. After all, when players are sprawled on the couch or hunched over a computer during gaming, how can it support fitness? In this case, we&#8217;re referring to a specific active genre of games that involves camera tracking or VR setups. The advantage of this kind of gaming is that <strong>you can&#8217;t really sit down and it involves the movement of the whole body.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:20px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<p>Another plus is wide availability. You can play them <strong>on PC, consoles, or even standalone VR headsets<\/strong>&nbsp;like the Oculus Quest.&nbsp;You have a wide range of titles to choose from,&nbsp;<strong>including combat, simulators, sports or rhythm games.<\/strong> Modern VR innovations thus don&#8217;t necessarily have to fall into the sports genre to get you moving.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:20px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<p>A great example is the action-adventure game &#8220;Horizon Call of the Mountain&#8221; on PlayStation VR2, where climbing mountains with your hands is a central part of the experience. Thanks to this, you can enjoy <strong>a lot of movement and stretching<\/strong> while focusing on beautiful mountain views, the story, and exciting action in a post-apocalyptic world dominated by machines. Active gaming could even be significant for the elderly, who often engage in the least physical activity among all age groups.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:20px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<p>A review of studies from 2020 showed that active video games <strong>can improve mobility and activity levels among adolescents.<\/strong> In some cases, they might work even better than traditional methods like &#8220;stand up and take a few steps.&#8221; During active gaming, <strong>attention is directed to other aspects, and movement becomes somewhat subconscious, making time pass more quickly.<\/strong>&nbsp;<span class=\"tadv-color\" style=\"color: #ff6600;\">[8]<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:20px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter size-large is-resized\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1124\" height=\"735\" src=\"https:\/\/gymbeam.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/10\/iStock-1566835284-1124x735.jpg\" alt=\"Active VR Gaming\" class=\"wp-image-500157\" style=\"object-fit:cover;width:840px;height:549px\" title=\"Active VR Gaming\" srcset=\"https:\/\/gymbeam.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/10\/iStock-1566835284-1124x735.jpg 1124w, https:\/\/gymbeam.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/10\/iStock-1566835284-400x261.jpg 400w, https:\/\/gymbeam.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/10\/iStock-1566835284.jpg 1267w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1124px) 100vw, 1124px\" \/><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\n<div style=\"height:20px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"mental-health\">6. Mental Health Support<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Games can be a great way&nbsp;<strong>to take a break from everyday duties, unwind and relax<\/strong> in the virtual world while having fun. Additionally, they can provide you with a chance to process your day or <strong>recharge your health bar after a challenging day at school or work.<\/strong> Thanks to this, games have significant potential as a source of mental well-being, a claim supported by research published in the 2021 journal JMIR Serious Games.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:20px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<p>This research examined the impact of commercial video games on depression, anxiety, and other mental health issues. It demonstrated that <strong>gaming can be beneficial in promoting mental health,<\/strong> especially for people who may not have access to other forms of treatment, perhaps due to cost barriers. The study also indicated that <strong>commercially available video games were effective in reducing symptoms of depression,<\/strong> including the loss of pleasure when doing activities. Additionally, titles like Minecraft or Animal Crossing: New Horizons facilitate social connections and reduce feelings of loneliness. It&#8217;s worth noting, though, that video games should not replace traditional therapy and are better viewed as <strong>an alternative supplement to support mental health.<\/strong> <span class=\"tadv-color\" style=\"color: #ff6600;\">[9]<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:20px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<p>Coping with challenging life periods can also be aided by adaptogens, which you can learn more about in our article <a class=\"ek-link\" href=\"https:\/\/gymbeam.com\/blog\/adaptogens-natural-substances-that-help-manage-stress\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" aria-label=\"(opens in a new tab)\"><strong>Adaptogens: Natural Substances That Help Manage Stress.<\/strong><\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:20px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"cognive-functions\">7. Positive Effect on Cognitive Functions<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>\u010eal\u0161\u00edm z dobr\u00fdch aspektov hrania m\u00f4\u017ee by\u0165 aj pozit\u00edvny vplyv na kognit\u00edvne funkcie. S\u00fa to tie, v\u010faka ktor\u00fdm m\u00f4\u017eeme vn\u00edma\u0165 okolit\u00fd svet. Pr\u00edkladom je <strong>pozornos\u0165, schopnos\u0165 vytv\u00e1ra\u0165 \u00fasudok alebo rie\u0161i\u0165 probl\u00e9my, myslenie, pam\u00e4\u0165 \u010di pou\u017e\u00edvanie re\u010di.<\/strong> V s\u00favislosti s kognit\u00edvnymi funkciami a hran\u00edm videohier m\u00e1me k dispoz\u00edcii cel\u00fd rad r\u00f4znych \u0161t\u00fadi\u00ed, ktor\u00e9 podporuj\u00fa pozit\u00edvny efekt a hovoria, \u017ee <span class=\"tadv-color\" style=\"color:#ff6600\">[10 \u2013 14]<\/span>:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:20px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Playing modern 3D games can enhance spatial memory<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Action games can reduce reaction time without compromising accuracy<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>First-person shooters can improve mental flexibility, which aids in adapting to change, multitasking, and switching between tasks more efficiently<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Fast-paced action games can enhance visual processing ability, enabling better identification of important information while ignoring irrelevant distractions<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Action games can improve the ability to shift attention visually and auditorily to different objects, a skill valuable during activities such as reading or information processing<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:20px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<p>These findings challenge the &#8220;boss&#8221; called stereotype which suggests that gamers are just some clumsy geeks with big glasses and greasy hair. In reality, some of the most famous gamers include individuals like <a class=\"ek-link\" href=\"https:\/\/gymbeam.com\/blog\/training-and-eating-routine-of-thor-superman-and-other-hollywood-stars\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" aria-label=\" (opens in a new tab)\">Superman actor Henry Cavill<\/a>, Olympic swimmer <a class=\"ek-link\" href=\"https:\/\/gymbeam.com\/blog\/michael-phelps-the-athlete-who-changed-the-world-of-swimming-whats-behind-his-success\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" aria-label=\" (opens in a new tab)\">Michael Phelps<\/a>, 007 Agent Daniel Craig, seasoned Hollywood actor Samuel L. Jackson, or Captain Marvel herself, Brie Larson. None of these names fit the stereotypical profile. <span class=\"tadv-color\" style=\"color: #ff6600;\">[17]<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:20px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"reaction-time\">8. Enhanced Reaction Time<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Reaction time is crucial in various everyday situations. It allows us to respond appropriately, like <strong>hitting the brakes<\/strong> when a pedestrian suddenly appears in front of our car. It&#8217;s also valuable when preparing for a job interview, where <strong>quick and assertive responses may be required.<\/strong> People with better reaction times have an advantage, whether it&#8217;s swatting away a fast-moving mosquito or <strong>grabbing a falling cup in the nick of time.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:20px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<p>The good news is that this skill can be trained, and action-packed games like Call of Duty, God of War, GTA, Halo, or DOOM can help. These games are filled with dynamic sequences and scenarios that require players to react much faster than they typically would in everyday activities. As a result, they can develop and improve this skill even outside of gaming. A meta-analysis of 80 studies comparing the reaction times of gamers and non-gamers in various conditions demonstrated that, on average, <strong>gamers can react about 12% faster and more accurately than non-gamers.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:20px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<p>Specifically, e-sport performance can also be improved by <a class=\"ek-link\" href=\"https:\/\/gymbeam.com\/blog\/the-best-dietary-supplements-for-gamers-and-e-athletes\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" aria-label=\"(opens in a new tab)\"><strong>the best dietary supplements for gamers and e-sports athletes.<\/strong><\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:20px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1124\" height=\"749\" src=\"https:\/\/gymbeam.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/10\/DSC01303-1124x749.jpg\" alt=\"Gaming Improves Reaction Time\" class=\"wp-image-500173\" title=\"Gaming Improves Reaction Time\" srcset=\"https:\/\/gymbeam.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/10\/DSC01303-1124x749.jpg 1124w, https:\/\/gymbeam.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/10\/DSC01303-400x267.jpg 400w, https:\/\/gymbeam.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/10\/DSC01303-1536x1024.jpg 1536w, https:\/\/gymbeam.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/10\/DSC01303-2048x1365.jpg 2048w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1124px) 100vw, 1124px\" \/><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\n<div style=\"height:20px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"problem-solving\">9. Support for Problem Solving<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Another superpower of video games is their ability to foster creativity and problem-solving skills. This fact is fundamental to games and might not require scientific studies to back it up. It&#8217;s based on the idea that <strong>practice makes perfect.<\/strong> If you&#8217;ve played a particular game for an extended period of time, you know how you gradually get better at it. The same principle applies if you&#8217;re a fan of hardcore &#8220;souls&#8221; games, where defeating tough bosses is the goal. I&#8217;m sure you&#8217;ll recall numerous situations where you <strong>had to strategize and rethink your approach<\/strong>, all in pursuit of overcoming that challenging obstacle, just to arrive at the GAME OVER screen anyway.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:20px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<p>However, such challenges don&#8217;t deter an experienced gamer. Instead, you&#8217;ve <strong>learnt from your mistakes, tried different strategies, and devised new tactics until you successfully overcame the obstacle that stood in your way of progressing to the next level.<\/strong> The variety of games available today is vast, with modern titles becoming increasingly more complex. It&#8217;s no longer just about games like Tetris or Super Mario. Today&#8217;s games require players to gradually master their mechanics, learn, and acquire a broader range of skills that lead them to victory. <span style=\"font-size: 1rem;\">These claims are supported by researchers at the University of South Carolina, who found that <strong>games stimulate how players perceive and process the world around them.<\/strong> By being accustomed to solving various problems in virtual worlds, players are more likely to apply the skills and strategies they&#8217;ve developed within the game to real-life situations<\/span>. <span class=\"tadv-color\" style=\"color: #ff6600;\">[16]<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:20px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:20px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"socialising-and-teamwork\">10. Socialising and Teamwork Development<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Society often holds biases against gamers, perceiving them as people who spend days in front of a computer or console, having few friends and minimal social interaction. While there might be some gamers who fit this stereotype, the reality is different. Did you know that video games can contribute to socialization? According to IGI Global statistics, <strong>more than 70% of people play games with their friends.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:20px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<p>During gaming, they are connected through headsets and often engage in conversations. This social interaction can <strong>even extend beyond the virtual world and continue on community forums or chats.<\/strong> Furthermore, various <strong>community events and e-sports tournaments, where players meet either online or in person,<\/strong> are not uncommon. All of these interactions have a positive impact on socialization.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:20px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<p>Gaming doesn&#8217;t have to be solely competitive either. There are numerous cooperative games on the market, such as Minecraft, Diablo IV, or It Takes Two, where <strong>players&#8217; success relies on teamwork.<\/strong> There are also multiplayer shooters like Call of Duty, Battlefield, or Counter-Strike 2, which require coordination between at least two teams to defeat the opponent. This style of gaming <strong>can help develop the ability to work in a team,<\/strong> as confirmed by a study from Brigham Young University that observed 80 newly formed teams. The study concluded that people who <strong>played games together were 20% more productive<\/strong> as a team compared to those who used traditional team-building activities to foster collaboration. <span class=\"tadv-color\" style=\"color: #ff6600;\">[18]<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:20px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1124\" height=\"632\" src=\"https:\/\/gymbeam.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/10\/iStock-1357434471-1124x632.jpg\" alt=\"Games Develop Teamwork\" class=\"wp-image-500191\" title=\"Games Develop Teamwork\" srcset=\"https:\/\/gymbeam.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/10\/iStock-1357434471-1124x632.jpg 1124w, https:\/\/gymbeam.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/10\/iStock-1357434471-400x225.jpg 400w, https:\/\/gymbeam.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/10\/iStock-1357434471.jpg 1365w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1124px) 100vw, 1124px\" \/><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\n<div style=\"height:20px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Conclusion\"><\/span>Conclusion<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Video games are no longer just a childhood activity focused on pressing two buttons. The gaming industry has <strong>evolved into a multi-billion-dollar business, offering titles that can positively impact various aspects of your life.<\/strong> These claims are often supported by scientific studies, which have shown several interesting benefits. Examples include <strong>improved spatial vision, support for mental health, and reduced reaction time,<\/strong> which can be appreciated not only while driving. Additionally, gaming can be a great tool for training various professions, such as surgeons or pilots. All of this makes video games an activity that can <strong>enrich your life positively at any age.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:20px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<p>If someone stubbornly claims that gaming is strictly for children or a waste of time, share this article with them to convince them otherwise. Also, don&#8217;t forget to tell us in the comments which games you like the most.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-columns is-layout-flex wp-container-core-columns-is-layout-9d6595d7 wp-block-columns-is-layout-flex\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\"><a href=\"https:\/\/gymbeam.com\/gaming\" target=\"_blank\" class=\"category-button\">\n\t<span class=\"label\">\n\t\tGaming\t<\/span>\n\t<svg class=\"icon-cart\" focusable=\"false\">\n\t\t<use xlink:href=\"#icon-cart\"><\/use>\n\t<\/svg>\n<\/a><\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\"><a href=\"https:\/\/gymbeam.com\/nootropics-and-the-brain\" target=\"_blank\" class=\"category-button\">\n\t<span class=\"label\">\n\t\tNootropics and the brain\t<\/span>\n\t<svg class=\"icon-cart\" focusable=\"false\">\n\t\t<use xlink:href=\"#icon-cart\"><\/use>\n\t<\/svg>\n<\/a><\/div>\n<\/div>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>Playing games faces various stereotypes in society. However, the opposite is true, and video games are now one of the most popular sources of entertainment sought after by players of all ages. Moreover, they offer a whole range of different benefits that you will appreciate in your everyday life. Keep reading to find out what those benefits are.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":120,"featured_media":500297,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"_acf_changed":false,"_editorskit_title_hidden":false,"_editorskit_reading_time":0,"_editorskit_is_block_options_detached":false,"_editorskit_block_options_position":"{}","footnotes":""},"categories":[97],"tags":[7619,7631],"filter_section":[],"filter_attribute":[],"class_list":{"0":"post-501442","1":"post","2":"type-post","3":"status-publish","4":"format-standard","5":"has-post-thumbnail","7":"category-fitness-tips","8":"tag-health","9":"tag-healthy-lifestyle","10":"h-entry","11":"hentry"},"acf":[],"yoast_head":"<!-- This site is optimized with the Yoast SEO plugin v24.4 - https:\/\/yoast.com\/wordpress\/plugins\/seo\/ -->\n<title>Surprising Benefits of Playing Games That Will Improve Your Life - GymBeam Blog<\/title>\n<meta name=\"description\" content=\"What benefits can playing games bring? In this article, we will look at the benefits for not only e-sports players but also casual gamers to enjoy.\" \/>\n<meta name=\"robots\" content=\"index, follow, max-snippet:-1, max-image-preview:large, max-video-preview:-1\" \/>\n<link rel=\"canonical\" href=\"https:\/\/gymbeam.com\/blog\/surprising-benefits-of-playing-games-that-will-improve-your-life\/\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:type\" content=\"article\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:title\" content=\"Surprising Benefits of Playing Games That Will Improve Your Life - GymBeam Blog\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:description\" content=\"What benefits can playing games bring? 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