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Video games have become an integral part of our weekly routines. From kids enjoying Minecraft, to adolescents playing NBA 2K, and adults engaging in word scramble games, video games span all ages. Whether we like it or not, video games are here, and they are not going away anytime soon. The average person spends roughly 7 hours a week playing video games according to Forbes. Considering this, should we be concerned about how this multi-billion-dollar industry affects us? Of course, if you spend a considerable amount of your time on anything in life, it’s going to have an impact.

When used appropriately, video games can have a positive impact on our lives. A study from the University of Dundee in Scotland involved three classes from three different schools ranging from ages 10 to 11. One group played a learning game on the Nintendo DS called Dr. Kawashima’s Brain Training for 20 minutes; the second group used a technique called “Brain Gym” (a series of physical movements thought to improve brain activity), and the third group learned regularly. At the end of every week, they took an age-appropriate test marked out of 100. The mean score for the group that played the video game drastically increased, while the increases for the “Brain Gym” and regular learning groups were minimal.The study lasted for 10 weeks. The main takeaway is that video games can have a positive impact when used non-excessively. In this case, it was proven that there are positive applications for video games that extend beyond recreation.
Furthermore, even if you were to play a non-educational video game, you may end up improving memory functions, specifically related to navigation or visuo-spatial memory. The reason is that, in video games, remembering the location of important landmarks or items is crucial. This function of video games naturally stresses your brain, improving memory.

However, in many other cases, video games end up being misused, most commonly through addiction. Excessive use can result in massive changes in the brain. These changes can lead to long-term behavioural problems and disrupt the natural development of the brain, affecting our mental health.

If you were to ask me about video games, I would say they are great when not used excessively. They can help us improve visuo-spatial memory, learn new things, and have fun. However, they can easily become detrimental and out of control. If you want to play video games, moderation is key. Just don’t let it morph into something that can control your life.