The effects of competitive and interactive play on physiological state in professional esports players

• DOI: 10.1016/j.heliyon.2021.e06844
• Publication Date: 2021-04-20T23:14:59Z
• Authors: Ken Watanabe; Naoki Saijo; Sorato Minami; Makio Kashino
• Keywords: Video game

In esports competitions, both motor skills used to manipulate an avatar and psychological are important achieve optimal performance. Previous studies have investigated the role of skill on computer game performance by observing modulation physiological state. However, how state is modulated in athletes during match unclear. this study, we examined two hypotheses clarify effects competitive interactive play professionals: (1) sympathetic nervous system players activated situation, (2) autonomic activities dyads synchronized positively/negatively interpersonal interaction.We measured electrocardiograms (ECGs) nine professional while they played a fighting video investigate changes We compared ECGs collected resting state, playing against computer, other players. calculated mean heart rate (HR), temporal pattern HR, correlation HR patterns pairs player-versus-player condition.The results showed that was elevated presence human opponent with opponent, increase also observed specific situations (beginning match, toward end or match). These suggest situation. addition, were synchronized, suggesting activity player via interaction play. Our provide insight regarding relationship between professionals competitions.