Some think that video games are simply mindless exercises for the bored mind, but there are studies that illustrate that this is not always the case. Certain types of video games have actually been proven to “train the brain to become more agile and improve strategic thinking” (Science Daily). These strategic games demand the user to generate advanced cognitive thinking in order to play to the best of their ability. In one experiment undertaken by Queen Mary, University of London they had two groups play two different versions of a fast paced strategy game called Starcraft, and a third of the group play a life simulation game called “The Sims”, which does not require tactics or superior memory. By the end of the study, the scientists noticed something interesting. “Those who played StarCraft were quicker and more accurate in performing cognitive flexibility tasks than those who played The Sims” (Science Daily). Other studies showed that games like Halo sped up decision making. Justin notes that, contrary to popular belief, most studies show that video games are not the mindless activity that many make them out to be, but instead they are sometimes helpful in improving cognitive thought.

    Not only can video games improve the brain’s learning ability, but they can also improve the mental state of the person playing. Some researchers are even researching the ability of video games to be used as an alternative to ADHD medication. One such game, project Evo, is currently in the first stages of testing, but scientists think it has the potential to help children who have ADHD. The gameplay “uses cognitive skills required for multitasking to help people with ADHD learn to improve their attention spans and ignore distractions” (Tech Times). 

    Studies such as those being done on popular games like Starcraft, Halo, and the Sims, as well as the scientific ones on games created specifically to help particular disorders, show that video games can have a positive mental effect on users, and not just a negative one. 


Queen Mary, University of London. "Playing Video Games Can Boost Brain Power." ScienceDaily. ScienceDaily, 21 Aug. 2013. Web. 06 Dec. 2015. <http://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2013/08/130821094924.htm>

Burks, Robin. "Are Video Games The Best Medicine For Mental Health Conditions?" Tech Times RSS. N.p., 17 Aug. 2015. Web. 06 Dec. 2015. <http://www.techtimes.com/articles/77263/20150817/are-video-games-the-best-medicine-for-mental-health-conditions.htm>