Neurogaming in Virtual Reality: A Review of Video Game Genres and Cognitive Impact

Abstract

This work marks a significant advancement in the field of cognitive science and gaming technology. It offers an in-depth analysis of the effects of various video game genres on brainwave patterns and concentration levels in virtual reality (VR) settings. The study is groundbreaking in its approach, employing electroencephalograms (EEGs) to explore the neural correlates of gaming, thus bridging the gap between technology, psychology, and neuroscience. This review enriches the dialogue on the potential of video games as a therapeutic tool in mental health. The study’s findings illuminate the capacity of different game genres to elicit varied brainwave responses, paving the way for tailored video game therapies. This review contributes meaningfully to the state of the art by offering empirical insights into the interaction between gaming environments and brain activity, highlighting the potential applications in therapeutic settings, cognitive training, and educational tools. The findings are especially relevant for developing VR gaming content and therapeutic games, enhancing the understanding of cognitive processes, and aiding in mental healthcare strategies.

Implications for Serious Game Design: Quantification of Cognitive Stimulation in Virtual Reality Puzzle Games through MSC and SpEn EEG Analysis

“…The foundational skills of coding and problem-solving, cultivated in early video games, have propelled the development of increasingly intricate and sophisticated gaming experiences. This advancement in the industry has led to the emergence of serious games (SGs) as mechanisms for skill development and enhancing learning or cognitive processes [1][2][3].…”

“…Electroencephalography (EEG), utilized to classify players' expertise levels by analyzing brain activity, significantly enhances video game design. The EEG device MUSE 2, employed in various studies [1][2][3]19], records brain waves in specific regions like AF7, AF8, TP9, and TP10, each associated with distinct cognitive functions: AF7 and AF8, located in the frontal and temporal lobes, respectively, are involved in attention, language, and memory processes, while TP9 and TP10, in the parietal region, relate to visuospatial and sensory functions. Concurrently, the study of brain waves and their correlation with mental activities like problem-solving constitutes an active and complex area of research within neuroscience and cognitive neuroscience, wherein the brain engages in multiple cognitive functions such as attention, working memory, decision making, and reasoning.…”