Winners and losers in brain computer interface competitive gaming: directional connectivity analysis

Area of Science:

• Neuroscience
• Human-Computer Interaction
• Cognitive Science

Background:

• Competitive brain-computer interface (BCI) games offer a unique platform to study neural correlates of performance.
• Understanding brain connectivity patterns in winning versus losing players can reveal key factors for success.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the differences in directed brain connectivity within and between players in a competitive BCI game.
• To explore the relationship between neural activity, mental strategies, and game outcomes.

Main Methods:

• Ten dyads participated in a neurofeedback-based competitive game using relative alpha (RA) band power to control a virtual seesaw.
• Intrabrain connectivity was assessed using multivariate Granger causality (GC) and directed transfer function.
• Interbrain connectivity was analyzed using bivariate GC.

Main Results:

• A significant relationship was found between RA and individual scores (p<0.05).
• Winning players maintained higher RA and demonstrated effective control of brain activity at Pz.
• Losing players exhibited inappropriate strategies with increased left frontal cortex activity, suggesting collaborative gaming.
• Interbrain connectivity showed greater information flow from losers to winners, indicating winners' superior opponent monitoring.

Conclusions:

• Both innate neurological factors and adaptive mental strategies contribute to success in competitive BCI games.
• Winning players demonstrate enhanced self-regulation and opponent awareness through brain activity.
• Future research should explore causal links between neurological indices and gaming strategies.