Health bars and power ups: The 'freaky and unpleasant' world when video games leak into the physical realm
Health bars and power ups: The 'freaky and unpleasant' world when video games leak into the physical realm
Health bars and power ups: The 'freaky and unpleasant' world when video games leak into the physical realm
Josh Sims
April, 10, 2025
Summary
Video games, the world’s biggest entertainment medium, can sometimes blur into real life through a phenomenon called Game Transfer Phenomenon (GTP). Psychologist Angelica Ortiz de Gortari coined the term after noticing gamers involuntarily perceive or react to the world as if still in-game—like seeing health bars or feeling urges to collect items. GTP can be disorienting, with effects ranging from mild visual overlays to physical reactions. Though often brief and more common with immersive games, GTP can distress some players. Experts urge awareness without panic, suggesting breaks and decompression. More research is needed to understand its causes and long-term impact.
Reference
Sims, J. (2025, April 10). Health bars and power ups: The 'freaky and unpleasant' world when video games leak into the physical realm. BBC Future. https://www.bbc.com/future/article/20250409-game-transfer-phenomenon-the-people-who-see-video-games-in-the-physical-world