To some people, video games are an addiction like drugs and alcohol. In many respects, parallels can get drawn between all three. But, video games aren’t just a way to spend hours in front of a TV screen or computer display. There are many cognitive advantages to playing games as well.
Still, that doesn’t seem to answer WHY many of us become so obsessed with playing video games. Here are some of the reasons why gaming can turn from a casual pastime into a regular obsession:
They motivate us to solve problems
Everyone has problem-solving skills to some extent. The thing about video games is they allow us to use those skills to progress. For example, solving puzzles, searching for clues, and so forth. They stimulate our brains and keep us hooked until we feel tired, or someone makes us stop playing!
They use augmented reality
Many of today’s games use what we call augmented reality. This is where a camera gets used to show a live view of our surroundings. We can then interact with the environment around us via the game.
One of the most talked about examples in the gaming world today is Pokemon Go. People use their smartphones and tablets with the game, along with GPS to guide them to new areas.
Augmented reality games have been around for a while on console games and online ones too. Gaming becomes more fun for us if it involves real-life settings that are familiar to us!
Some games let us earn some cash
As odd as it sounds, some games let you make some money while playing them! Classic, notable examples include online casino games. Others might be ones where you mine for resources and sell them for real money. Even online gaming platforms like Steam let you buy and sell game objects!
Others give us challenges in the real world
You might not think it. But, some games let us progress further if we complete “real world” tasks or challenges. Even online gaming providers have got in on the phenomenon as well.
For instance, an online casino provider set players an Escape from Dull challenge. This is where they bet whether someone could leave a place in Scotland and get to London by a certain time!
And lest we forget Pokemon Go! In fact, the aim of that game IS to solve challenges in the real world. Admittedly, via our mobile devices, of course.
Social motivation
It’s no secret that many popular games titles are multiplayer ones. That means players form cooperatives to defeat common enemies. You usually see this happening in warfare games like Call of Duty, for example.
Many of us become addicted to such games because of social motivation. Groups of friends, for example, go online to play a game together at set times. There might even be tournaments set on online forums that players feel compelled to do.
Final thoughts
These days, the accessibility of video games makes it easy for people to become addicted to them. Addictions don’t tend to happen on a long-term basis as with alcohol and drugs. But, when we become obsessed with video games, they could feel like they take over our lives.
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