Video game training and the reward system

This longitudinal study explored how video gaming affects the brain's reward system, focusing on the ventral striatum (VS), which is central to processing rewards and motivation. Fifty participants were split into a training group (played "Super Mario 64" for two months) and a control group. Functional MRI revealed that VS activity remained stable in gamers during reward anticipation tasks but declined in non-gamers. This suggests gaming enhances or preserves reward sensitivity over time, possibly due to its engaging and rewarding nature. The findings highlight video games' potential in cognitive-training and therapeutic interventions by sustaining motivation and reward responsiveness in non-gaming contexts, like learning or rehabilitation.

Engage in enjoyable video gaming to preserve brain reward responsiveness, especially with challenging and goal-oriented games. This study suggests gaming supports motivation and could complement other cognitive-training strategies. Use moderation to avoid excessive gaming and balance it with physical activity and social interaction. For therapeutic purposes, consult professionals to integrate structured gaming into broader cognitive or mental health programs.