How Does Virtual Reality Training Affect Reaction Time and Eye–Hand Coordination? The Impact of Short- and Long-Term Interventions on Cognitive Functions in Amateur Esports Athletes

Abstract

This study investigates the efficacy of VR-based cognitive training using the game Beat Saber in enhancing cognitive functions in amateur e-athletes. Participants were divided into two groups, undergoing either 8-day or 28-day training. Significant improvements were observed in reaction time (RT) and eye–hand coordination (EHC) for both groups. Notably, cognitive gains in EHC were maintained over time, indicating the durability of training effects. The lack of significant differences between the short-term and long-term training outcomes suggests that even brief, intensive VR training can lead to substantial cognitive improvements, potentially obviating the need for extended training periods. The findings underscore the potential of immersive VR games like Beat Saber as effective tools for cognitive training. This study also highlights the relevance of VR technology beyond entertainment, demonstrating its application in cognitive enhancement. Given the rising popularity of esports and VR, integrating such technologies into cognitive training programs offers a promising avenue for improving cognitive functions in younger populations familiar with virtual environments. The results suggest that VR-based interventions can enhance cognitive functions which are crucial for both competitive esports and general cognitive functioning, making VR a versatile tool in various training contexts. Further research is recommended to explore the generalizability of these findings to other VR games and different populations.

Keywords

• virtual reality
• esports
• reaction time
• eye–hand coordination
• cognitive functions