Playing Video Games During the COVID-19 Pandemic and Effects on Players' Well-Being

The COVID-19 pandemic has affected our lives in many ways, including how we choose to spend our time and deal with unprecedented circumstances. Anecdotal reports suggest that many have turned to playing video games during the pandemic. To better understand how games are being used during the lockdown, we conducted an online survey (N = 781) that focused on gameplay habits and effects on players' well-being. We find that time spent playing games has increased for 71% of respondents, while 58% of respondents reported that playing games has impacted their well-being, with the overwhelming majority of responses indicating a positive impact. We identify seven ways that games have affected players, such as providing cognitive stimulation and opportunities to socialise, and a variety of benefits related to mental health, including reduced anxiety and stress. Our findings highlight the sociocultural significance of video games and the potentially positive nature of games' effects on well-being.

Automated summary

The COVID-19 pandemic has led to a rise in video game playing as people look for ways to cope with unprecedented circumstances. A survey conducted during the lockdown shows that majority of respondents reported a positive impact on their well-being from playing games, with benefits such as cognitive stimulation, social opportunities, and reduced anxiety and stress. These findings highlight the potential positive effects of video games on mental health and overall well-being.