The effect of virtual reality action games on attention functions: an EEG study

Virtual reality (VR) video games, with their immersive and interactive features, can provide effective tools for studying cognitive functions and brain neuroplasticity. This study investigated the effects of immersive environments and game types on attention using electroencephalography (EEG). EEG data were collected during five minutes of rest and about twenty minutes of gameplay with Casual Social and Rhythm Exergames. Data were analyzed for power indices and network connectivity across resting, Casual Social, and Rhythm Exergaming states. Power indices were examined for attention-related changes, while connectivity explored brain region interactions during attention allocation. Results showed that Rhythm Exergames elicited higher theta/alpha EEG values, indicating increased attention compared to Casual Social Games. Enhanced connectivity in alpha and beta1 frequency bands was observed between bilateral temporal lobes during Rhythm Exergames, with decreased connectivity in frontal and occipital lobes, suggesting a focus on auditory attention, likely enhancing perceptual and auditory processing. These findings support the effect of VR video games on attention regulation, highlighting their use as potential tools for cognitive enhancement and rehabilitation.