Addictive Games

Disruptions: Using Addictive Games to Build Better Brains

By NICK BILTON

Casinos mastered the art of the game long ago. We know the odds are against us, but we play anyway. In Las Vegas and elsewhere, the slot machines beckon with their bright lights and the promise of hitting that elusive jackpot. The temperature is kept cool. There are no clocks to remind us that it’s getting late. Drinks are free.

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For now, the goal is to figure out what makes a game addictive on a neurological level, then to couple this with brain research showing how play can improve the mind.

“We want our games to be engaging and immersive, and to help people,” said Dr. Gazzaley. “You could imagine five years from now that you go to the doctor with a problem and he prescribes an F.D.A.-approved video game for you to download and play for two weeks.”

Let’s just hope that game isn’t Flappy Bird./.../