Researchers from onlinecasino.ca have created a model — based on research from organizations like the NHS, National Geographic, and WHO — that shows what gaming addicts could look like in the year 2040.
The model – named Michael – shows the physical changes that an avid gamer could develop over the next 20 years if their constant gaming habits remain the same:
The model shows indentation in the skull due to pressure from the extended use of headphones, bald patches due to lack of sunlight and vitamin D, dark eye circles and bloodshot eyes from excessive screen time, hairy ears from a lack of air circulation, a hunched back from poor posture, and rounded shoulders caused by a lack of movement.
The model also shows things like swollen ankles and varicose veins from lack of movement and blood flow due to long periods of sitting. In addition, there are a number of hand-related injuries due to strain from the controller.
Lastly, the model shows stress-induced eczema, obesity from lack of exercise, and pale skin due to vitamin B-12 and D deficiency.
People who have been gaming for years, however, disagree with the validity of the model.
my dad whatsapped me that 'this is what gamers will look like in 20 yrs' bs, forgetting that i and a lot of others have been playing games for more than 20 years and do not look anything like that so but i guess some people will do anything to feel slightly superior
The physical changes seen in "Michael" seem to depict a very severe case of what could happen as a result of excessive gaming and in no way is BuzzFeed saying that these changes will occur – or agreeing that the model is accurate.
Onlinecasino.ca says gamers should be mindful of their posture and get up to stretch often. In addition, they encourage people to give their eyes a break from the screen, eat a balanced diet, and drink plenty of water. This is also a good reminder for anyone who works in front of a screen for long periods of time.
For more resources on gaming disorder, click here.