Data suggests there are over 3 billion gamers in the world today. Playing games is often seen as a fun way to pass the time, but it offers some brilliant, unexpected benefits. If you’re thinking about jumping on the gaming bandwagon, here are some reasons to take the plunge today.
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Beating stress
One of the most popular reasons why people play games is to de-stress and unwind. Over 65% of players cite relaxation as the main benefit. Whether you live for the adrenalin rush of driving games and weaving through circuits at speed, you love to immerse yourself in fantasy worlds, or you’re a fan of traditional card games like solitaire and chess, you can use games to help you beat stress. Games can take your mind off stressors and catapult you to different places, allowing you to escape, feel free and reset your mind.
It’s particularly beneficial to have access to tools that help you manage stress, as studies show that stress is increasingly prevalent. Having hobbies like gaming, playing sports, cooking, and doing exercise can help you prevent stress or ensure mild symptoms don’t develop into more serious problems.
Working your brain
Playing video and online games is fun, but it also works your brain. Research indicates that people who play games regularly enjoy enhanced cognitive skills, particularly when it comes to boosting memory and paying attention over prolonged periods. Gaming can also improve your ability to solve problems, think strategically, think on your feet and make decisions. Strategy-based games and puzzles like chess, sudoku and checkers are particularly effective for players looking to sharpen their problem-solving skills and keep their brains in check. If you’re a fan of action and adventure games, you can also reduce reaction times through practice.
Being part of a community
On the surface, gaming may seem like a solo pursuit, but it can open doors in terms of social opportunities. Many people like to play with friends, family members, colleagues or their partners and children, but you can also make friends with people you’ve never met before. Online gaming enables you to join interactive leagues or challenge strangers so that you can play any time regardless of where you are. The days of waiting around for somebody to accept an invitation, contest or dual are long gone.
In addition to playing with or against other people, players can also become part of local, national or international communities. You can join groups, leagues and forums via websites, apps and social media, or get involved in groups based in your neighborhood. Being part of a community, whether online or in person, can be incredibly beneficial for your mental health, especially if you experience loneliness or you find it hard to make friends.
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Gaming is one of the most popular hobbies on the planet. If you’re thinking about joining the crowds and giving it a go, key benefits include reducing stress, having fun, boosting your brainpower and becoming part of a community. Whether you’re eager to fight battles, build new kingdoms or test your mettle against chess masters, there are many advantages to taking up gaming as a new hobby.