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bioRxiv · 10.1101/2025.06.13.659455

Structurally Constrained Functional Connectivity Reveals Efficient Visuomotor Decision-Making Mechanisms in Action Video Gamers

Cahill, K.·Dhamala, M.
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Abstract

Long-term action video game (AVG) playing has been linked to improved response times ([~]190 ms) without accuracy tradeoffs in time-sensitive visuomotor decisions, but how it reshapes neural circuits that enable this behavioral advantage is unclear. In this study, Cognitive Resource Reallocation (CRR) is introduced as a candidate mechanism for how sustained engagement with AVGs drives behaviorally relevant neuroplasticity through neuroplastic refinement. Using the AAL3 structural connectivity atlas, we apply structural constraints to functional connectivity (SC-FC) and directed functional connectivity (SC-dFC) in gamers and non-gamers. Our results provide strong support for the CRR hypothesis and demonstrate that the brain plausibly reallocates cognitive resources over time to optimize task-relevant networks in high-demand environments such as AVGs, enhancing the integration of contextual information and refining motion processing, which may be a key mechanism in explaining more efficient visuomotor decision-making. These findings position action video games as powerful tools for studying experience-driven neuroplasticity, with implications for cognitive training, rehabilitation, and optimizing real-world visuomotor decisions.

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Cahill, K., Dhamala, M.. 2025-06-15. Structurally Constrained Functional Connectivity Reveals Efficient Visuomotor Decision-Making Mechanisms in Action Video Gamers. https://doi.org/10.1101/2025.06.13.659455

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