Playing computer games can be addictive, with similar mechanisms to those when taking addictive substances. Winning activates the reward centre in the brain. The desire to relive a feel-good sensation develops. In time, tolerance develops. The dose, in this case the amount of game-playing, must be increased. As with other addictive situations, control is lost. Gaming dominates. School, education, and family are neglected.
Successful games are designed in a way that binds the user. These games last forever. Graphic features change frequently so that there is always something new to discover. Games distribute rewards, but players do not know when. Games that involve team activity generate social bonding. The degree of difficulty is tailored to the player; this leads to winning, which motivates the player to keep playing. Not every phase of intensive play can be qualified as addiction. Since 2019 however, gaming disorder is recognised as a disease by WHO. This designation facilitates diagnosis and treatment.