Pros and Cons of Video Games and How They Affect Your Brain

By Kaleel Grantham

Video games have become a part of modern life, from different platforms from personal computers and smartphones to consoles like PlayStation and Xbox. Gaming now reaches billions of players worldwide and influences social media. This article explores the pros and cons of video games and how they shape the world.

Video games cover so many different categories. Starting with  sports, strategy, simulation, role-playing, fantasy, multiplayer, arcade, action and many more options. Video games help stimulate players by increasing their problem-solving skills, imagination, creativity, team building skills, social skills, multitasking skills, and even hand-eye coordination.

“A study of nearly 2,000 children found that those who reported playing video games for three hours per day or more performed better on cognitive skills tests involving impulse control and working memory compared to children who had never played video games.”(Video Gaming May Be Associated With Better Cognitive Performance in Children, 2025)

On the contrary, video games can become addictive and influence the players’ state of mind. Players may have a harder time stepping away from the games. Players may also play violent games that create violent and negative behaviors. Also, cyber bullying could be a factor in interactive and multiplayer games. Some games may be inappropriate for different age groups and could have a bad influence on the players.

In conclusion, video games have a positive effect on the human brain, however, they also have their challenges where they could be harmful to the human brain and the players’ actions and influences. Video games can be used to enhance and develop brain stimulation and learning, while limiting time and types of games to maintain positive effects. Grounding and touching earth is highly recommended.

Video gaming may be associated with better cognitive performance in children. (2025, April 9). National Institutes of Health (NIH).