The Hidden Benefits of Gaming

By Philip Woods

Why do people like to play videogames? Answering such a question is not always easy because there are many factors that contribute to the reasons of playing videogames. Some just like to win in a competitive bout or simply achieving the highest score possible. They get the most benefit out of this when they win at their favorite game. What is it however, that makes certain games likely favorites? What attracts some people to some games?

Look at it this way: a person that idolizes the idea of playing major league baseball can lose himself in a videogame based on baseball. Does this mean the person lives a Walter Mitty fantasy existence? No, this is not the case at all. More than likely, the individual's suspension of disbelief is what leads to the player delving deeply into the game and becomes the videogame character on a subconscious level.

Upon reading such a description, some may wonder if there is anything inherently wrong with falling so deeply into a realm of suspension of disbelief. The answer to this is no because most people are completely unaware of the process. It is witnessed and forgotten on the subconscious level. It is also the subconscious level that attracts someone to purchase the game in the first place.

How does such a process occur? Well, if often happens without the gamer even knowing about it. Returning to the aforementioned baseball example, a person may have a deep and sincere affinity for the game. This affinity is what attracts such an individual towards the videogame version of baseball when he comes across it. And, of course, this contributes to his purchasing decision.

Is there anything unhealthy with such a process? No, and the ability to step into the shoes of a major league sports player by way of a videogame system can be rewarding for gamers looking to enjoy a little levity. Far too often, there is a clich and stereotype of a gamer/role-player that is put forth. In reality, the process of stepping into a videogame fantasy figure is more along the lines of a mild diversion as opposed to the means of escape many have suggested.

To a great extent, the vast majority of positive traits can be found on the subconscious level. Someone that finds the traits of heroes to be worth duplicating will note that a videogame allows one to step into a hero's shoes and also embody these same traits. Such mythical role models can have a greater impact on people's subconscious than most imagine.

There have been scores upon scores of psychology books written on the subject of videogames and the most surprising aspect being much of what has been written is positive. This is because many people involved with honest psychological studies of videogames will reveal some of the helpful and near therapeutic benefits of gaming.

Videogames are not merely an idle leisure time pursuit. The choices made by those interested in these games present a window in the motivations and inner traits of the gamer. This is true even when the gamer himself may not even be aware of what exactly is going on. - 29872

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