In 2017, the video game industry generated approximately $18 billion in America alone. 4 out of 5 American households own at least one games console. An estimated 155 million Americans participate in video game use, representing a staggering 42% playing at least 3 hours per week (Extra-life). It is undeniable that America continues to play, but at what cost? Research has demonstrated and supported the benefits of playing video games, such as better hand-eye coordination or improved multitasking abilities. However, research has also shown that every advantage also has a disadvantage. These drawbacks are due to the mechanics of these games designed to keep players engaged and ready to continue playing. I will discuss how game designers use methods to trigger their effects on players' brains at a neurological level and the effects it has on the mental and physical health of its users. Say no to plagiarism. Get a tailor-made essay on “Why Violent Video Games Should Not Be Banned”? Get the original essay Video game designers have had a lot of practice since the 1970s, when the first generation of consoles was released to the public. Innovation in the digital age has equipped designers with tools and capabilities that designers in the 1970s could never have imagined. The game titles available today are built with cutting-edge design and programming software, ensuring that the gameplay is not only incredible, but that the gameplay feels almost second nature to players. Some game titles such as World of Warcraft or Elder's Scroll: Skyrim to name a few reflect the ever-increasing capabilities and attention to detail of the designers, making these titles true cult classics upon release . Hours upon hours of discoverable content with in-game partners to navigate as players journey through a vast virtual world. The designers specifically focus on five particular aspects of gameplay to ensure that players are fully immersed in their digital creations and want more every time they play. The first of these aspects is a model of measurable progress that correlates with the players' gaming experience. As the hours pass, players continue in hopes of reaching the next level or achieving a certain number of points or in-game currencies. The ease of obtaining these specific pursuits in the game is enhanced by this measurable model providing visual progression as they get closer to their goal with each action. The second aspect is designed to generate multiple achievements within the game, each varying in duration and requirements. Time factoring gives players insight and the promise that even if they don't achieve the goal they are trying to achieve, there are other goals that can be achieved with effort, regardless of time. third aspect of rewarding effort, regardless of the amount of effort expended. effort, each player wins in one way or another. Feedback is the fourth aspect and, in most cases, the most challenging aspect of all. By implementing in-game feedback loops, designers can directly manipulate players by rewarding specific actions. In response to this structure, players are punished for the absence or deviation of that specific action. The result is that players can adapt to the conditions of this structure to correct any subsequent action, in the hopes of obtaining said reward. The last of these aspects is the.