Over the years there has been a general impression that computer games are bad for your health. Because of this, computer game manufacturers have been working hard to produce games that are actually the opposite – good for you!

But beware, there are still lots of warnings associated with computer games.

Read on for things to keep in mind before you download that exciting game you’ve heard about.

Computer Game Negatives

• Violent games have been shown to fuel aggression in some people.
• Exciting games make your body produce adrenalin which in turn makes the heart beat faster and sends more blood to your muscles. It is not good for your body to be in this state for long periods of time.
• Computer game playing can be very addictive to some people.
• Playing games for long periods means less exercise and often results in obesity.
• There have been incidents of people getting DVT and even some deaths after playing computer games for a long period.
• Drivers tend to drive more aggressively after playing computer street racing games.
• Overuse can cause injuries in the hand such as RSI.
• Overuse can cause muscle and joint problems
• Overuse can cause Eyestrain.

Computer Game Pluses

• Computer games have been used as a form of physiotherapy for arm injuries.
• Computer games can help children with attention deficit disorders gain social skills.
• Computer games can be a distraction for people undergoing painful treatments such as chemotherapy.
• Computer games can help improve concentration skills.
• Computer games are fun and can be a great way to have a laugh!
• Computer games can improve hand/eye coordination.
• Most games make you think about what you are going to do next and can help your problem-solving skills.
• Some games can help improve your memory.
• You can play games with a friend or even people from all over the world.
• Anyone can play computer games, even if they are not very good at sport, have a disability, or find it hard to talk to others.
• Computer games can help with spatial awareness.
• Computer games can help Visual attention skills (such as keeping track of various objects at the same time).
• Some computer games can help enhance self-acceptance and self-esteem.
• Some computer games are designed to help stave off age-related mental decline,
• Some computer games have been known to help Alzheimer Patients