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Updated: Jul 11, 2025
Combining Computer Game-Based Behavioural Experiments With High-Density EEG and Infrared Gaze Tracking
Published on: December 16, 2010
Effects of a single bout of mobile action video game play on attentional networks
Biye Wang1,2, Jiahui Jiang1, Wei Guo1,2
1College of Physical Education, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou, Jiangsu, China.
Background:
Video game play has been linked to a range of cognitive advantages, and investigations in this domain have predominantly utilized cross-sectional designs or long-term training paradigms. Nevertheless, the specific effects of engaging in a single bout of video game play remain poorly understood. Consequently, the objective of this study is to examine the influence of a single session of mobile action video game (MAVG) play on attentional networks among college students.
Methods:
Seventy-two nonvideo game players were assigned randomly into an MAVG and a control game group. Participants in the MAVG group engaged in a 60-minute session of an action video game played on mobile phones, while the control group played a mobile card game for the same duration. All participants completed the attentional network test (ANT), which assesses alerting, orienting, and executive control network efficiencies, before and after the intervention.
Results:
The MAVG group had significantly improved alerting network efficiency following the intervention, compared to before (p < 0.05); the control game group did not. Neither executive control network efficiency nor orienting network efficiency were found to be improved by the intervention.
Conclusion:
The present data demonstrated that a single bout of MAVG play can improve alerting network efficiency selectively in young-adult college students. MAVGs may be useful for promoting attentional function with the advantages of being accessible virtually any time and anywhere.
