Starcraft 2 is an online, real-time strategy, computer game. (Credit: Wlodi, Flickr.com)

Starcraft 2 is an online, real-time strategy, computer game. (Credit: Wlodi, Flickr.com)

As we age, our ability to process information and react in fast manner becomes dulled. New research shows that within a popular video game, StarCraft 2, response times start to decline at 24 years of age, regardless of a player’s skill. The authors analyzed data on 3,305 players aged between 16 and 44 of all experiences. Some older players adapted to this situation by favouring simpler strategies or by a better use of the game interface.

Video available here.

Original research paper published in the journal PLOS One on April 9, 2014.

Names and affiliations of selected authors

Joseph J. Thompson, Simon Fraser University, British Columbia