What Are the Advantages of Playing Computer Games?

Distraction

• There is no argument that a computer game is a distraction. Though it can distract from things such as homework or daily life, it can also provide a healthy form of distraction. According to BBC, computer games have been proven to distract children from pain that they suffer during treatments such as chemotherapy.

Mental Health

• Games can also distract individuals from feelings of depression, self-doubt or even anxiety. According to Shankar Vedentam at the Washington Post, since direct focus is required in order to be successful at a game, it is thought that an individual suffering from depression will put aside their depressed feelings while playing because of the distraction. Vedentam wrote that ndividuals with Type A personalities tend to be stressed when they are bored. Computer games have been shown to relieve this boredom, but also provide a sense of stimulation and adventure that Type A personalities need, without adding stress into their lives.

Strategic Skill Building

• Computer games are also thought to promote strategy and skill building. Most computer games require users to think ahead, be aware of the game and strategically plan their next move in order to succeed in the game. Some games require characters to build an empire, multitask and work finances -- all of which can be used in everyday life planning. Independent decision making and logical thinking are all required in most roleplaying computer games.

Sharpening Senses

• Computer games move fast, especially the more difficult or higher the level in the game a user goes to. Games will require quick thinking and the ability to think and react quickly. Some games will sharpen memory skills by requiring the user to perform memory exercises throughout the game in order to advance to the next level.