Can Video Games Make You Smarter? Surprising Study Reveals the Truth

A recent study has thrown a wrench in the long-held belief that exercise is the key to brainpower. Researchers have found that playing video games might actually be more beneficial for cognitive function than regular exercise.

The Study’s Unexpected Findings

The study, published on PsyArXiv, analyzed data from 1,000 adults aged 18 to 87. Participants completed surveys on their lifestyle, health, and gaming habits, as well as brain tests evaluating memory, attention, and reasoning skills.

The results were surprising:

• Frequent gamers (5+ hours per week) performed cognitively like individuals 13.7 years younger who didn’t play games.
• Infrequent gamers (less than 5 hours per week across all types of games) performed like those 5.2 years younger.
• Moderate exercise (150 minutes per week) did not improve cognitive function but did positively impact mental health.

Why Video Games May Boost Cognitive Function

Professor Adrian Owen, a neuroscientist at Western University in Canada and lead author of the study, offers some potential explanations:

“Typically, they are highly engaging, strategic enhancing visual attention and processing speed, and problem-solving abilities, through intense repetition and practice.”

“Any gamer also knows that these games are designed to activate the reward systems of the brain, which leads to the release of neurotransmitters like dopamine. This may also have long-term effects on cognitive function.”

What About Exercise and Cognitive Function?

Professor Owen acknowledges the surprise regarding exercise:

“As for exercise not affecting cognition, that was also a surprise, given the World Health Organisation recommendations that moderate exercise can benefit cognition. However, that we only looked at the long-term effects of regular exercise so it may well be that a short burst of vigorous exercise does affect cognition — as many people report feeling ‘sharper’ after a workout.”

The Future of Brain Health and Entertainment

This groundbreaking study suggests that the way we approach brain health may need to be reevaluated. While more research is needed, the findings raise compelling questions about the potential benefits of video games for cognitive function and the role of exercise in overall brain wellness.

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