by Eric Bailey

Created on: March 19, 2009   Last Updated: March 26, 2009

To paraphrase Shakespeare: To play or not to play? That is the question. Whether 'tis nobler to suffer the slings and arrows of our countless virtual foes, or go outside and get some fresh-air exercise. After all, the temptation is certainly present. Though the initial investment may be steep, the resultant hours of entertainment can potentially make video games much, much more worthwhile on a per-dollar basis than many alternatives. Although many will cite the negativities and consequences of gameplay, video games also offer some compelling benefits to our lives in varying aspects.

Physical

Even though the art of deftly manipulating a controller may not seem like a bodily beneficial endeavor, it offers a few advantages. Despite the minimal movement involved, video gameplay can work to improve hand-eye coordination, in addition to honing the same muscle memory reflexes targeted by similar endeavors, such as typing or playing piano.

Also, with the advent of the Nintendo Wii, the potential exists for gaming to actively, tangibly engage its players in genuine physical activity. The byproduct of this can already be seen in titles such as Wii Fit.

Mental

Electronic gaming sequences often involve complex components of thinking such as intricate plots, confounding puzzles, statistical tracking, and the capacity to force users to quickly and effectively engage in decision-making in tense situations with multiple elements at once.

Arguably, this results in many brain-friendly benefits, such as enhanced reaction time, problem-solving skills, reading comprehension, analytical examination, pattern recognition, and the fostering of creativity.

Emotional

Though many choose not to enjoy playing video games, for those that do, "beating" a game or other competitors can certainly provide a genuine, if not short-lived, sense of happiness. Then again, "losing" a game can be a visible source of real frustration, and possibly anger. Specific genres offer interesting insights into the idea of triggering a specific visceral response; for instance, the entire line of survival horror titles aims to instill a sincere form of fear in players.

The emotions at work can be rather involved, and feelings of nirvana are met just as easily as those of devastating defeat. What many may fail to realize is that the emotions involved for video game players can be just as vividly real as those who pursue any other hobby.

This, ultimately, means that the choice to pursue playing video games is just as compelling, and legitimate, as that of any other pastime. The only remaining issue is personal taste in activity.

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