Gaming is a popular form of entertainment that one can enjoy on several devices, from consoles, cell phones to PCs. There are around 3.09 billion players worldwide. This is astonishing, considering that the world population is around 8 billion.
One cannot help but wonder: If so many people are into gaming, does it mean that it has a lot of good to offer? Unfortunately, gaming, just like any other activity, has both pros and cons, and despite its popularity, there are still some challenges that make it dangerous, especially for children.
In this article, we will examine the benefits and drawbacks of video games so that you can make an informed decision about whether to play them or not.
Pros of Video Games
Help Build Self-Confidence
As you become better and more successful as a gamer, you are more likely to feel more confident in your abilities and, therefore, have better self-esteem. Passing difficult levels and beating opponents you thought were impossible to deal with before boosts self-confidence and satisfaction. Additionally, gaming requires taking risks and thinking outside the box to solve complex tasks. This commitment helps you build problem-solving skills that will stay with you for the rest of your life.
Encourage Socialization
Gaming provides an opportunity to meet and interact with like-minded people. While it is true that you can play against someone from across the world, you’d still need to communicate with them. In fact, some gaming software provides video calling capabilities so that you can see who you’re playing against. Whether you’re playing online with friends or getting together for a local multiplayer night, video games are a great way to connect with your peers.
Not only can you talk strategy, but you can also share stories and experiences, which helps build relationships. You don’t have to be an extrovert to have a social life—all you need is a console and a few friends by your side. If such people aren’t around, it’s better to find those who will keep you company. You can invite them over or play at their place. Just make sure you know enough about them. If they invite you to play together, search their address on Nuwber to see if they really live there and learn more about them.
Improve Memory
Some games are specifically designed to develop players’ spatial navigation skills and memory. One of the ways they are known to help improve memory is through regular memorizing of patterns through trial and error, repetition, and problem-solving. As players advance, they must commit the patterns to memory to succeed. This challenges their memory by providing a virtual environment to practice, allowing them to learn faster and retain information for longer periods.
Prevent Depression
Perhaps one of the most life-threatening illnesses of the modern generation is depression. However, gaming can help cope with it. Since games create an alternate reality, they take players into different worlds, away from all the triggers that push them into stress and loneliness. Without a doubt, one of the terrific ways to unwind and escape from the demands of daily life is through a break from reality. Gaming provides that and so much more.
According to the Verywell Mind research, “Video games can mitigate symptoms of depression, such as the loss of pleasure.” So, if you’re dealing with depression, one of the things you should try, apart from working with a specialist, is gaming.
Improve Health
Gaming can be good both for your physical and mental health. Studies have shown that it can help with problem-solving, decision-making, and cognitive skills, including hand-eye coordination. For example, Sudoku and Chess require users to employ their intelligence and problem-solving abilities to solve puzzles and gain points.
In fact, our brains should be thankful for video games, as they increase gray matter in the brain and boost brain connectivity.
The Cons of Video Games
Now that we have discussed the pros, what about the negative side?
Promote Brutality
Aggression from gaming increases sentiments of violence, fury, and reckless behavior while reducing prosocial behavior. This is why it is so important to watch what games your kids are playing, as they can greatly impact their personality and behavior. It is also necessary to read game descriptions so that you understand the plot or setting.
Time-Consuming
Intense gaming sessions can occasionally draw you to spend overly long sessions behind a screen. This means you could spend weekends or late nights glued to your computer. That is why planning and knowing when to stop is important. It is hard, as games are too addictive, and you may even need to work with a therapist to help yourself.
Attract Unnecessary Expenses
Gaming can be expensive, especially if it has recurring subscription fees. If you love playing video games, you may feel pressure to conform. You may want to keep up with new releases or limited editions, which could strain your wallet. Subsequently, video game addicts can be tempted to find the nearest gaming arcade where they would spend money on games they can’t find online for free.
Encourage a Lack of Physical Exercise
Long-playing sessions include much sitting, which contributes to a sedentary lifestyle. This can lead to disregarding other activities that contribute to a healthy lifestyle, including physical exercises. You might also miss out on spending quality time with friends and family, working, or relaxing.
Stimulate Addiction
Video games are very addictive, like most things that are pleasurable. This addiction is especially severe in children and teens because of their gullibility and lack of self-control. Playing too much, especially without taking a break, can lead to serious gaming addiction. You might notice that you start abandoning responsibilities, such as school, work, or hygiene habits. So, despite the potential thrill that comes with gaming, you should set rules to help yourself play responsibly.
Conclusion
Ultimately, it’s up to you to find the balance. There is no one-size-fits-all solution that works perfectly for everyone. However, with careful thought and research, you can find what works for you. Gaming is undoubtedly a terrific way to pass the time and unwind, but if you are not careful, you risk becoming addicted to it. Set boundaries and keep track of how much time you spend playing. Create a schedule to keep yourself disciplined and avoid missing out on life.