Video games have long had the reputation of rotting childrens’ brains and making them emotionally stunted, however, there is evidence that proves that the exact opposite is true.
Using controllers to play video games has been proven to build motor skills in children as young as four years old. S.R.I International, a research group that focuses largely on economic studies and advancing artificial intelligence, has released studies that indicate that developing these motor skills through playing video games also adapts the brain to better handle pressure. By playing video games, children are also learning pattern recognition, hand-eye coordination, and spatial awareness.
First person shooters are a popular genre of video game, especially among teenage boys. While multiple parenting groups have stated that this genre turns children into emotionally numb murderers—and even cite these games as a cause for school shootings—academic researchers have determined that this is not the case. First person shooter games require the player to have good hand-eye coordination, decision making skills, and the willingness to take risks.
While the violence of first person shooters desensitizes players to unnecessary violence, it can also show children the realities of war. Call Of Duty is a popular franchise that focuses their games around different points in history, such as the modern Taliban conflicts in the Middle East, the World Wars, and the Vietnam War.
While playing the games, players are exposed to a simulation of the harsh conditions that the Armed Forces deal with on a daily basis. While this could certainly desensitize children to violence, it could also lead to them having more empathy toward those who are subjected to the reality of bloodshed.
So what genres of video games benefit the players? Strategy games, such as Starcraft and Into The Breach require its players to be able to make quick decisions, memorize information, and act under pressure. Strategic video games have been linked to players being able to analyze a situation in order to find the most logical approach.
The Civilization franchise is centered around creating a sustainable empire, so players learn how to think diplomatically as they create alliances and determine what is best for their citizens.
In action role-playing games (RPGs), players are able to explore in-depth fictional worlds while interacting with the plot of the game. The Witcher series allows players to hone their hand-eye coordination by battling monsters, enemies, and wild animals. Players also learn about the fragility of economy, as they have to barter with non-playable characters (NPCs) in order to receive a steady income.
Detroit: Become Human teaches players about the consequences of their actions, as every decision made while playing impacts how the story ends. Detroit: Become Human also ventures into philosophy as players contemplate what it means to be human.
Simulation games, such as Sim City, allow players to gain access with construction, engineering, and local politics as they effectively create their own city. Farming Simulator also allows players to gain knowledge of real careers as they manage a farm, breed livestock, and sell their produce.
Stardew Valley allows players a chance to relax as they try to restore the small village of Stardew Valley, all while they build professional and personal relationships with the Valley’s residents.
While playing video games in large quantities is bad for eyesight, players mentally benefit from various genres of games. By playing video games, players are learning and developing—especially if they play as children.
Photo by Katelyn Miller
