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Are Video Games Good for You? 

September 7, 2026
By Ellen Song

Kids are often told that playing video games is a waste of time. But not everyone thinks that’s true! 

The U.S. government is looking for gamers to become air traffic controllers. This is an important job. Air traffic controllers help tens of thousands of planes safely take off and land each day. Officials say gamers have many of the skills that air traffic controllers need to succeed. They problem-solve and can take on multiple tasks at the same time.

In fact, many people see the value of gaming. More than half the adults in a 2025 survey said the skills they developed as gamers have helped them in their careers. Plus, gaming offers many job opportunities. More than 250,000 people work in the video game industry in the U.S.

Still, many people say playing video games can do more harm than good. They argue that there are better ways to develop skills for the future than by staring at a screen for hours. 

Are video games good for you?

It’s no secret that kids like playing video games. They’re a fun way to relax and connect with family and friends. Experts say playing games like Minecraft can help kids learn teamwork. 

Some researchers have found that video games may also boost brainpower. Bader Chaarani is a professor at the University of Vermont. His research shows that gamers do better than non-gamers at tasks involving memory and problem-solving. He says that makes gaming different from other types of screen time. 

“It’s not like scrolling or reading some jokes on the internet,” Chaarani says. “This is an activity that is actively engaging the brain.”

But he notes that the benefits only come with playing games in moderation.

“One hour or less per day seems like the sweet spot,” Chaarani explains. 

Video Games Then and Now
Watch a video to see how video games changed over the years.

Many people say that there are better ways to build life skills than by playing video games. They argue that activities like reading and playing sports can build your skills without the problems that can come from gaming a lot. One downside is that many games are designed to keep you playing so you can reach the next level. 

“Anything that keeps your focus for a really long time takes away from an opportunity to be active,” says Jill Murphy. She works at Common Sense Media. That group helps families use technology safely. 

Too much gaming can also lead to health problems. It can cause eye strain, headaches, and sore wrists. 

Plus, online gaming often means playing with people you don’t know. That can create unsafe situations. Gamers may face bullying. Or they may be pressured into sharing personal information. 

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1. According to the article, why is the U.S. government looking for gamers to work as air traffic controllers?

2. What does industry mean as it is used in the article? What are some jobs that you think are part of the video game industry?

3. According to the “No” side of the debate, what are some of the downsides of video gaming?

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