New research suggests that playing first-person shooter vidgames can improve your vision. According to University of Rochester cognitive scientist Daphne Bavelier, the games exercise the "contrast sensitivity function," crucial for reading and nightvision. In the study, some gamers played Unreal Tournament 2004 and Call of Duty 2. Others played The Sims 2, but didn't experience the vision benefits. From National Geographic:
It may be that locating enemies and aiming accurately is a strenuous, strength-building workout for the eyes, (Bavelier) said.
Another possible reason is that the unpredictable, fast-changing environment of the typical action game requires players to constantly monitor entire landscapes and analyze optical data quickly.
Finally, Bavelier said, the games' rich payoff may also play a role.
"It's pleasing to be successful in your mission," she said. "When you combine rewards with these other [factors], then you get much more learning."
"Video Games Improve Vision, Study Says"
