Citing neuroscience studies, Chu said playing certain action games for 30 minutes a day over a period of two months could actually stimulate brain growth and boost memory, sight, hearing and decision-making skills.
“But the interesting point is once you go over the limit, growth becomes inhibited – the key is to avoid addiction,” Chu said, adding that a good rule of thumb was to do it in moderation, no more than 20 hours a week.
Chu recognises the benefits and has been promoting the concept of gamification – the application of game elements in teaching and learning.
Looking ahead, Leung said the ultimate goal was not just seeing the best local players on the professional stage but about making people regard e-sports as a positive activity.
It’s tough at the top for an e-gamer
It’s common knowledge that on average a professional athlete’s career is more or less over by the time they reach their late 30s. But the career lifespan of an e-sports gamer is even shorter.
E-sports athletes constantly make split-second decisions in a fast-paced environment. It is highly demanding, both physically and mentally, and requires tip-top reflexes and fast brain responses. Both attributes often peak at the age of 24, according to a 2014 study by Simon Fraser University in Canada.
That’s why Aaron Ho Ho-nam has made a bold move. Months away from obtaining a licence to practise Chinese medicine, the 26-year-old decided to pursue a career in e-sports.
A rather frail-looking individual who speaks with a soft voice, Ho appeared rather confident when he began to talk about his knack for video games. “I have had this natural talent since I was young. I was always better than others.”
After graduating from Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Ho took a master’s course at Baptist University to obtain the necessary qualifications. But his passion for video games never waned. “Because of the support I got from my friends, I came to [Hong Kong Esports] for a series of tests, which I survived. That’s how I ended up here.”
