Video games have been on the market for the last 35 years. They are a unique form of entertainment because they encourage players to become part of the game’s characters. However, this has both positive and negative effects on the player. Several studies have been published exploring the effects of video games on heart rate.

In this article, I have tried to summarize the research done on the effects of video games on people’s heart rates.

In a study conducted by the Stress Research Institute at Stockholm University, playing violent video games was found to affect heart rate variability not only during gaming, but also when you sleep at night. A group of children, aged between 13 and 15, were asked to play two different games at night, one focused on aggression and the other without violent features.

Fifteen children were exposed to violent video games, playing no less than three hours a day. The remaining fifteen were asked to play non-violent cartoon games, no more than one hour per day. The children played games at home two nights.

Heart rates were observed during play and also while sleeping. The study seems to show that the effects of the games not only stop when you turn off the system, but have a continuous psychological impact without the player noticing.

While the children slept later that night, the children who were exposed to very violent games had a faster heart rate compared to the night after playing non-violent games. Children who were exposed to violent games also reported poor sleep quality at night after playing aggressive game. They also reported an increase in feelings of sadness. The violent gambling seems to have caused more nervousness and stress at bedtime.

This suggests that frequent exposure to violent computer games not only increases stress and aggressive behavior, but also increases antisocial behaviors. Other studies have also indicated that violent video games can elicit an adrenaline response. In other words, they can affect your blood pressure, breathing rate, and pain tolerance.

Violent video games are often more exciting and obsessive than their more peaceful counterparts. As a result, they are likely to see an increase in heart rate. It could also be the increased level of arousal that is causing an increase in anxiety. However, not all people can be affected by exposure to violent computer games, but most people are affected.