Reducing backward masking through action game training

Li, R.; Polat, Uri; Scalzo, Fabien; Bavelier, Daphné · 2010 · OpenAlex-citations

DOI: 10.1167/10.14.33

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Summary

This study investigates whether action video game (AVG) training alters the temporal dynamics of visual processing, specifically focusing on backward masking. While previous research established that AVG players exhibit enhanced spatial resolution and faster reaction times, the impact on temporal processing remained unclear. The authors hypothesized that AVG experience reduces backward masking, a phenomenon where a subsequent stimulus impairs the perception of a preceding target. To test this, the researchers conducted three experiments comparing action gamers (VGPs) and non-action gamers (NVGPs), followed by a causal training study. Experiment 1 utilized a lateral masking paradigm where participants detected a central Gabor patch in the presence of flanking masks at various stimulus onset asynchronies (SOAs). Results showed that VGPs exhibited significantly reduced backward masking compared to NVGPs, while forward and simultaneous masking remained unchanged. Experiment 2 refined this analysis by testing multiple SOAs and varying mask orientation (collinear vs. orthogonal). VGPs demonstrated reduced sensitivity to both collinear and orthogonal backward masks, particularly at longer SOAs (≥90 ms). Notably, NVGPs showed facilitation with orthogonal masks at short SOAs, whereas VGPs showed little sensitivity to orthogonal masks, suggesting a shorter temporal range of interaction in gamers. To establish causality, Experiment 3 employed a training design where participants played either fast-paced action games (*Unreal Tournament 2004*, *Call of Duty 2*) or a non-action simulation game (*The Sims 2*) for 50 hours. Pre- and post-training assessments revealed that only the action game group showed a significant reduction in backward masking. The control group showed no such improvement. These findings confirm that AVG training specifically enhances the temporal resolution of early visual processing. The significance of these results lies in demonstrating that AVG play induces plasticity in the temporal dynamics of visual cortex networks. The reduction in backward masking suggests faster excitatory lateral interactions or reduced inhibitory mechanisms in VGPs. This provides a mechanistic explanation for the faster reaction times and enhanced sensitivity previously observed in gamers, linking behavioral advantages to specific changes in low-level visual processing. The study confirms that the benefits of AVG training extend beyond spatial acuity to include improved temporal processing capabilities.

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• hazard perception training