Gaming, Reaction Time, and Aging

[tranemiles]

• Tweet

I saw this chart about how a person's reaction time to hitting the break changes as we age.  It got me to thinking about our community and if our group would say, with games they play frequently, they notice much of a change over the years in how they react while playing a shooter or a racing game, etc.

[GRD 4 3L]

In console racing using wheel+pedal, I use left foot braking so my response time would be lower than average.

In real life, left foot brake in auto transmission and right foot brake in manual trans.

Am I fast?  I don't know; did not keep a record and don't feel any different. 

One thing for sure, I anticipate a lot more when I am driving so I don't have to brake as much or often.  That has changed.

[CaptCalamity]

Just turned 50 in April, and I can tell you that I will be forever worse in twitchy shooters, and I'm not too keen on the thought of playing Forza with a crowded pack anymore.  I can tell a difference.  "Sandbox" games seem to be a bit more forgiving, especially if you can play co-op and have a little help!

[PIG20]

I just turned 33 and I can't really tell a difference yet.  I never played PC shooters so my first real introduction to online shooters was SOCOM for the PS2. 

As of right now, I feel my reaction times are about the same when it comes to game like COD.  Once I get a few games in, I end up picking up right where I left off.  I usually carry a 1.5 KDR on average in the COD series.  Actually, it's been sort of an anomoly for me as my KDR has improved over the years, not worsened.

There are all sorts of factors that could play into that though.  Hit detection, better internet connections, map strategy, and good teammates all play major roles in having success in these games.

[braincake]

i am not sure about my reaction time in game, but i do know that gaming has helped me in real life reaction times...even in simple things like snagging something that falls out of a cabinet when i open the door. 

[PIG20]

i am not sure about my reaction time in game, but i do know that gaming has helped me in real life reaction times...even in simple things like snagging something that falls out of a cabinet when i open the door. 

Its the ninja effect!  I totally have those moments as well and I love it when that happens.

[Medik8d]

Thats a great question, unfortunatley most of us dont pay attention to there reaction times. Would like to think mine have not slipped to much. My driving times are faster than they used to be. Not sure if thats just from lots of practice. As for first person shooters, was never to good at  them with a controller. Love PC shooters   

 Have to agree with Braincake, and say gaming has helped my real life reactions to certain things. Nothing like dropping something out of your hand on accident. And being able to catch it before it hits the ground. Very rewarding lol, so if thats a ninja moment, then sweet where are my throwing stars....Will be 42 in July will have to start paying attention to reaction times. When I am unable to snatch the pebble, then that will be a sad day 

[CaptCalamity]

I just turned 33...

  Phhhttt! You crazy kids...