The pause in video games, scientifically known as “incubation effect,” has gained recognition for its positive impact on problem-solving. This notion, which has been studied for 99 years, suggests that taking a break after encountering an obstacle can facilitate victory, a phenomenon that many players have experienced in their own games.
A well-studied effect whose effectiveness is more than proven
A recent analysis of player experiences in challenging titles like Hollow Knight and Nine Sols highlights how brief breaks can be decisive. The author recalls a frustrating encounter with the boss Groal the Great in Hollow Knight, which was quickly overcome after a break to make coffee. This aligns with studies indicating that players who take breaks have a 3% higher chance of winning in their next game of League of Legends if they take some time after losing.
Research has suggested that breaks allow players to forget inappropriate solutions, mentally restructure the problem, and activate previously forgotten knowledge. This is evidenced in a study with “Physics Playground,” where players who faced obstacles and took breaks were able to complete levels with the same effectiveness as those who never encountered blockages.
Science has shown that the “incubation effect,” coined by psychologist Graham Wallas in 1926, could be the explanation behind these experiences. Although a more thorough study is needed to establish a definitive correlation with video games, there are enough indications to consider that breaks are an effective strategy. The gaming community has begun to accept that sometimes, a breather is key to success in facing the toughest challenges.
