What video games can teach us about strategy and leadership

Video games as learning tools

As we’ve mentioned above video games can indeed serve as learning tools since they offer unique opportunities to enhance your skills and gain something valuable that traditional learning methods might not provide. So, without further ado, let’s break down the specific ways video games function as learning tools:

• Cognitive skills enhancement: Video games can improve cognitive abilities such as problem-solving, decision-making, and spatial awareness.
• Subject-specific learning: Historical games like the Assassin’s Creed series can teach players about different historical periods and the Kerbal Space Program for example can teach principles of physics and aerospace engineering.
• Soft skills development: Multiplayer games or role-playing games can help develop essential soft skills like teamwork, communication, leadership, and adaptability.
• Real-world skill application: By simulating real-world situations, video games allow players to practice and apply skills in a safe and controlled environment.
• Problem-solving and critical thinking: Video games often require players to analyze situations, identify problems, and develop effective solutions, fostering critical thinking skills.
• Adaptive learning and personalization: Many games can adapt to a player’s skill level, providing personalized challenges and feedback to support learning.
• Motivational aspects: Achievement systems like badges, levels, etc. in games can boost motivation and encourage continuous learning, which later on can translate to real-world motivation.

Overcoming the stereotypes

Most of you would agree that video games have been unfairly stigmatized as a waste of time and a detriment to the development of the younger generation for decades. However, we believe that it’s time to overcome some of those stereotypes about gaming and start recognizing video games as learning tools and a valuable resource for personal and professional development.  Misconceptions and stereotypes have always existed, especially when it comes to gaming. Thankfully, research studies have debunked many of these myths, revealing the surprising benefits that gaming can offer.

While it’s often believed that gaming is a waste of time, it’s quite the opposite. In fact gaming can enhance problem-solving skills, cognitive abilities, and creativity. Far from being a mindless activity, games often require strategic thinking, quick decision-making, and adaptability, making them intellectually stimulating. Another common widespread misconception is the famous one ‘gaming isolates people.’ which is far from the truth. These days gaming has transformed into a highly social activity, with multiplayer games, online communities, and streaming platforms that indeed foster teamwork, communication, and social interaction.

Insights from industry experts

We did our due diligence and reached out to an industry expert to get their perspective on the educational potential of video games, particularly focusing on strategy and leadership lessons from gaming. We had an insightful conversation with Dr. Kristy Custer, who was a high school teacher, and principal for 24 years, with a primary focus on student engagement and finding new ways to connect with learners. Now, Dr.Custer works for “Generation Esports”, the leading company connecting schools with the e-sports world.

When discussing video games, Dr. Custer says, “ When I was introduced to esports, I immediately saw the educational potential and how it could reach students who weren’t necessarily engaged by traditional school programs. My transition into esports and educational innovation at Generation Esports has allowed me to merge my passion for education with the cutting-edge world of gaming. I’ve been involved in building curricula that use gaming as a tool for teaching teamwork, leadership, and digital literacy, which has been incredibly rewarding.” With that in mind, we share the highlights from our discussion with Dr. Custer.

What leadership skills can players develop through multiplayer online games

Through multiplayer games, students can develop critical leadership skills such as communication, problem-solving, and decision-making under pressure. In team-based games, players often take on leadership roles where they coordinate with their teammates, assign roles, and keep morale high.

This mirrors what we see in the real world, whether in business or any other team environment. These games create situations where players must not only think strategically but also lead others toward a common goal.

How do games teach players to handle failure and learn from mistakes

Gaming is one of the best environments for teaching students how to deal with failure. In games, failure happens frequently, but it’s part of the learning process. After each defeat, players are given immediate feedback on what went wrong, and they have the opportunity to regroup and try again. This teaches resilience and the ability to reflect on mistakes, adapt strategies, and improve with each new attempt. In education, this kind of growth mindset is invaluable.

How do video games today incorporate strategic elements, and how have these evolved

Today’s video games have evolved to be deeply strategic. Gone are the days of games purely based on reflexes. Modern games like League of Legends and Valorant require players to think ahead, manage resources, and execute complex strategies while balancing real-time decision-making. 

The strategic elements have evolved to include long-term planning, adaptability, and understanding of team dynamics, which align closely with skills needed for leadership roles in the real world.

How do video games encourage leadership skills among players, especially in team-based or multiplayer games

In team-based games, players often take on roles that naturally encourage leadership. Whether organizing a strategy, managing a group of players, or adapting to changing circumstances in real time, players are put in situations that require leadership qualities. Games encourage collaboration, conflict resolution, and the ability to inspire and motivate a team, which are critical skills in any leadership position.

How does the e-game industry view the relationship between gaming and real-world skills like strategy and leadership

The esports industry increasingly recognizes the strong correlation between gaming and the development of real-world skills. As President of Educational Innovation at Generation Esports, I’ve seen firsthand how the gaming industry values strategic thinking, communication, and leadership development. 

Esports organizations and educational institutions alike are incorporating these skills into their training and curricula, knowing that the skills learned in gaming are transferable to professional and academic environments.

What role do you think video games will play in leadership development in the future

I believe video games will play a transformative role in leadership development. As the world becomes more digital, games provide a unique environment where students can practice leadership in ways traditional classroom settings can’t replicate. Games allow for risk-free decision-making, rapid feedback, and dynamic problem-solving, all within a collaborative environment. 

I see gaming becoming a key tool in both educational and corporate training programs, where students and professionals alike can develop leadership and strategic skills in an engaging, hands-on way.

Conclusion

Our research clearly shows that there is a real connection between gaming and real-life business skills. The expert in Dr. Custer is just another proof in the long list that gaming is not only good for relaxing and entertainment, but more importantly, develops real-life skills in and outside the business world. 

So, next time someone tells you that gaming is a waste of time, just remind them that even the most successful CEOs might have secretly leveled up their strategy and leadership skills in a virtual world. In fact, there are even esports startups founded by gamers who have harnessed these skills for innovative endeavors.