With the rise of video game controllers that don’t require you to be wired to the console and be adept at thumb button-pressing — such as the Wii and the xBox Kinect — a new genre of video games have also been developed: active video games (AVGs).
Active video games — also known as “exergames” — are games that combine game mechanics with activity or exercise. Dance Dance Revolution (DDR), for instance, is a simple dance competition game that has sold over 11 million copies worldwide since its latest release just two years ago.
Many people buy exercise games, such as Wii Fit and Wii Fit Plus, to help them enjoy exercising more. Which then begs the question — do such exergames actually act as good substitutes for a more traditional physical workout?
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I found that my co-ordination has also improved because the sensors in my Wii don’t allow for half hearted attempts. So the neurons and synapses are getting a workout too.
Nice survey! 18 studies and 354 participants… I’d call that statistically significant. An average of 19.66 participants per study.
Hi John. Interesting analysis. In today’s world these games are a good alternative for many people. Additionaly in my case it’s really helpful in family unification.