Okay, I can hear you thinking “what is healthy about playing online games”? According to comScore, in the United States alone there are more than 190 million people who play or have played online games. That’s only in the US. Worldwide the number is much higher.
There are some definite benefits to playing online games. For example, online games boost memory and develop cognitive skills. Adults typically exercise certain parts of their brain but online games flex the memory, speed, reasoning and logic muscles of the brain. In the case of children, games help with their cognitive development. Games have always been a part of life. The internet now adds a supplement.
Online games can help with promoting social interaction. For a shy person who normally avoids crowds, he/she can go online and play a game that allows them to interact with other people. All from the comfort of their home and they never actually see or touch the other players. This can help them build casual relationships, build self confidence and meet new people.
Additional benefits from playing online games can help individuals and families. One way is to help deal with or recover from chronic or other health issues. Another is to stay connected with friends and family that may live in another part of the country or world.
With the growing popularity of smartphones, individuals now have another access point referred to as “mobile gaming”. Instead of being stationary typing away on a laptop, it’s very easy to access a game on a smartphone and start playing. According to comScore.com, 8.5 million people downloaded a game to their mobile device. As games and apps continue to improve, smartphones will continue to evolve as they offer another platform for consumers.
As with anything, balance in life is important. We believe online games can be a component to an overall mental and physical regimen that keeps a person “sharp”. Everything in moderation applies here.
Are you ready to play?