Video games have gotten a bad rap since the 1990s when they were attacked by politicians for being too violent. That line has continued for years.
What people don’t realize is that there are a lot more benefits of video games than drawbacks. While it seems that people spend way too much time in front of a screen, they’re actually going great things for themselves.
Do you want to know what the benefits of gaming are? Keep reading to find out what video games can do for your brain and your wallet.
1. Social Skills
On the surface, you might think that video games are the ultimate in anti-social behavior. What you miss is that games actually make kids more social.
They’re connected to other players, where friendships and rivalries form. They’re also connected to a much larger community. You can check out video games in your country to see what kind of communities exist.
For many kids, video game communities are a safe space. They might get bullied at school, but they feel at home with other video game players.
2. Problem-Solving Skills
How many people do you know can’t solve a problem, let alone do it quickly? Different types of video games like role-playing games force players to think strategically.
They have to develop the skills to solve complex problems in a short amount of time. That pressure also develops creativity as players try different solutions.
3. Critical Thinking Skills
There are dozens of studies and opinion pieces that say Americans lack critical thinking skills. This can hamper innovation and growth.
In the same way that video games can turn players into problem solvers, you can develop critical thinking skills that will serve you well in your career.
4. Visual-Spatial Skills
Have you ever tried to fill a moving truck? You know that it’s not that far from playing Tetris. Video games like Tetris and Minecraft are great for developing visual-spatial skills.
You can develop a deep understanding of the relationship between space and distance. You can also develop skills to translate that into real-life situations.
5. There’s Money to Be Made
There is a career path in the video game industry. You can go on to be a video game producer or developer for a big-name company.
You can be a software developer, writer, or animator. If you’re a top gamer, you can make money playing in tournaments or join an eSports team.
The average eSports player makes about $60,000 a year. The top players can earn millions of dollars a year.
The Many Benefits of Video Games
Are you surprised by how many benefits of video games exist? You can develop social skills, critical thinking, and problem-solving skills.
You can parlay these benefits into a lucrative career, whether it’s in the gaming industry or not. You’ll have the skills that employers value and look for.
Do you want more gaming tips? Click on the Gaming tab at the top for more helpful articles.
