“No level up!”: no effects of video game specialization and expertise on cognitive performance

This study examined whether expertise in video gaming or specializing in game genres (action vs. strategy) improves cognitive performance. Ninety-two participants completed two tasks: the Flanker Task, testing attention, and a Change Detection Task, testing visual memory. Despite earlier claims in video game research, this study found no significant cognitive advantage for frequent or expert gamers in either task. The results challenge the notion that playing video games significantly enhances transferable cognitive skills. The authors suggest prior positive findings may involve methodological biases or limited real-world applicability. This study highlights the need for replication and stricter methodologies in video game cognition research.

While video gaming can be an enjoyable leisure activity, this study shows no clear evidence of cognitive benefits like improved attention or memory. To enhance cognitive health, focus on evidence-based activities such as regular exercise, intellectual challenges like puzzles or reading, and social-engagement. The study's robust design supports its findings, but as it challenges prior claims, additional replication studies are needed before dismissing all cognitive benefits of gaming.