As long as the gamer can maintain self-control, the advantages of online gaming far outweigh the disadvantages. Online gaming increases social interaction, improves memory, coordination, and strategic thinking. However, this activity can also have negative effects on the health of the player. For more information, read the following article. It will help you decide whether or not this type of activity is right for you. Read on to learn more about the benefits of online gaming.
Increases social interaction
A new study suggests that playing multiplayer video games may increase social interaction. A large proportion of young gamers who play these games form lasting friendships with people they meet online. The World Health Organisation (WHO) has expressed the importance of community, connection, and relationships. Gaming, particularly social gaming is starting to provide direct benefits to psychological and social health. In fact, more than half of all video game players report feeling more social after playing a social video game.
Enhances memory
Neurobiologists at the University of California, Irvine have shown that playing 3D video games can improve memory. Compared to those who played two-dimensional games, 3-D gamers had better memory. In fact, their memory scores were 12 percent higher than those who played a two-dimensional game. Interestingly, this increase was not a consequence of improved cognition, but rather, the effects of a new environment on memory. The researchers have found novel virtual strategies for helping people with memory loss.
Improves coordination
Hand-eye coordination is a skill many people are naturally gifted with. Whether you play video games for fun or for a living, playing a video game helps you develop that skill. Studies show that video game play improves hand-eye coordination. In fact, studies have found that players of action video games score higher in hand-eye coordination tests than those who do not play video games. Playing online games is an excellent way to develop this skill and to discover your natural talent.
Improves strategic thinking
A recent study conducted at the Queen Mary University in London suggests that playing fast-paced strategy video games can improve the agility of the brain. This flexibility helps players adapt to changing tasks and think about multiple ideas at the same time. This skill can transfer to other areas of life, including work and relationships. This study used 72 female volunteers who had different levels of gaming experience. However, the researchers were unable to recruit enough male participants to conduct the study on low-level gaming.
Summary
Playing games, such as Minecraft, has many benefits for players. One of these is an increased ability to think creatively. Interestingly, a study by Iowa State University found that playing games like Minecraft improves the creative thought process in participants of all ages. Playing games has been shown to enhance memory and hand-eye coordination, and can prime participants to enter a “flow state.”