By: Louis Cao

Full-time gamers are at risk of developing a disorder known as the Gaming Transfer Phenomenon (GTP), which leads them to experience hallucinations of in-game features in real life. According to reports from competitive gamers, they may see health bars floating above people’s heads or envision others wearing virtual in-game items.

During a recent meeting between Australian and New Zealand psychiatrists, the focus was on discussing the gaming disorder associated with GTP. This condition can lead gamers to see features from games in their daily lives, even though they don’t exist.

According to gametransferphenomena.com,“GTP tends to occur after playing, but has also been reported during playing, particularly in AR games that allow switching between the virtual and the real world.” This explains that GTP can also occur when playing AR games, which promotes limiting AR game time.

One of the consequences of GTP is increased screen addiction, leading affected individuals to feel as if they are living in another world when they are not playing games. Additionally, those experiencing GTP can get insomnia and prioritize gaming above essential parts of life.

These studies remind us that it is important to limit screen time. By having good gaming habits, we can ensure that we can have fun while still staying healthy.