Between Problem Solving and Intoxication
A great piece in NYT Sunday Magazine about Gaming by Sam Anderson
Great games
… (hold you in) a place between conscious problem-solving and pure intoxication
Very well put.
FOLLOW - A key question of the article is why stupid games are so addictive. The answer comes from how our brains work. Our most intense emotions come from the amygdala. And that portion of the brain is often “freed” when we are intensely engaged in skills oriented activities. Like Van Gogh painting or us playing games. Same type of brain reaction.
2d FOLLOW - And because the skills mastery is so emotional, the benchmarking for improving skills becomes personal. Not just an abstract measure (which is in fact what it is), but a badge of honor. Achieving level 80 in World of Warcraft. Or life master in bridge.