Author(s): AJJIMAPORN, A., BUAPRAPAHN, P., SENWANDEE, P., SIRISOONTHORN, N., CHALERMTHAMRONG, P., MILLS, A., RAMYARANGSI, P. , Institution: SPORTS SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY, Country: THAILAND, Abstract-ID: 504

INTRODUCTION:
The online mobile game Realm of Valor (ROV) has gained significant global popularity due to providing competitive thrill and entertainment (1). Owing to the games heightened competitiveness and entertainment value, players often engage in prolonged gameplay sessions. However, this extended sedentary behavior could be linked to an increased risk of all-cause mortality (2). Given this context, the purpose of the present study was to examine the impact of sustained ROV gameplay on the psychophysiological responses of novice Esports players.
METHODS:
A total of twenty Esports participants, whose ages ranged from 20 to 22 (with a mean age of 21+1 years), took part in the investigation. They were divided into four teams, with five players per team. Each team was randomly assigned to compete against an opposing team in a series of three ROV games (approximately 60 minutes) and seven ROV games (approximately 180 minutes). The psychophysiological variables including heart rate (HR), stress levels, cognitive functions, and visual short-term memory (VSM) were measured pre-and post-competition.
RESULTS:
The findings of the study indicate a significant increase in HR following competition in both the three-game and seven-game conditions, as compared to the baseline measurements (p<0.05). Furthermore, stress levels were significantly higher after playing seven games compared to three games (p<0.05). Conversely, cognitive function was found to be enhanced in the three-game condition compared to the seven-game condition (p<0.05). No significant effect was found for either group on VSM.
CONCLUSION:
The present study demonstrated that prolonged periods of online ROV mobile gameplay could elevate HR and stress response in gamers, indicating that the immersive, competitive, and fast-paced nature of battle games such as ROV could trigger physiological reactions that mimic the bodys response to stress. From a practical standpoint, gamers should exercise caution and be mindful of the duration of their gameplay sessions. The promotion of responsible gaming habits and generating awareness of the potential health implications would also seem important in maintaining a balanced and healthy lifestyle for recreational Esports gamers.

References
1) How many people play Arena of Valor? -2023 statistics [Internet]. 2023 [cited 15 November 2023]. Available from: https://levvvel.com/arena-of-valor-statistics/
2) Rezende LFM, Sa TH, Mielke GI, Viscondi JYK, Rey-Lopez JP, Garcia LMT (2016). Am J Prev Med. 51(2):253-263.