We know that getting high and playing video games is the shit, but does being blazed actually make you better at gaming?
Now, this article is in no way based in any form of legitimate scientific study, rather, my interpretation of factoids mixed with my experience as an avid gamer and stoner.
Currently, there is limited scientific data on the effects of cannabis consumption due to the federal government's funding and the classification of weed as a Schedule I substance with no acceptable medical use. Despite 37 US states allowing medical marijuana, federal laws have made it difficult to properly study the drug's effect on people, with 91% of respondents supporting legalization. Over in Canada, studies are currently being conducted, and we’re further along than the States, but legalization in 2018 wasn’t that long ago and that type of data takes a while to accumulate.
That being said, legalizing and/or making weed readily available could potentially improve gaming performance, as it can boost dopamine release, a chemical that makes people feel good when good things happen. This effect is what makes video games so addictive whether high or not. While the science around weed and gaming is still unclear, some argue that it can help people focus on tasks that are useful, like household chores. NBA superstar Kevin Durant has even partnered with online cannabis marketplace Weedmaps to remove the stigma surrounding weed and athletics, highlighting the potential benefits of kush in enhancing performance. However, the exact effects of different strains and dosages on performance remain unclear.
Some strains of cannabis like sativa can help improve gaming performance, but some indica or hybrid strains can make players less focused and less committed to teamwork. Online repositories like Leafly and Weedmaps provide user reviews of specific strains, such as "Oreoz," which has been praised for its lively and focused effects. Cannabis and video games are often paired, as weed can enhance the visuals and intensity, making gaming more enjoyable. While the perception of marijuana making gamers better may not be scientifically proven, anyone who’s ever smoked can tell you, it’ll either improve or worsen your abilities.
The Electronic Sports League (ESL) has made drug testing mandatory for tournament players, highlighting the potential benefits of cannabis. The Stoned Gamer League, hosted at the Stoned Gamer Arena in Downtown Los Angeles, allows players to smoke weed while playing competitively. Some popular video games to play while high include Mario Party, which can be enhanced with a potent strain.
Rocket League, Katamari Damacy, Super Smash Bros, and Rock Band are all popular games that can be played with various cannabis strains. The aforementioned Mario Party is a fun, energetic game that combines soccer, racing, and partying. Rocket League is a competitive game that can be played on various gaming consoles, and hybrid or Sativa strains like Laughing Buddha and Dutch Hawaiian can help focus. Katamari Damacy is a unique, award-winning game that can be played while high, and Super Smash Bros is a fun game that can be played with various cannabis strains. Cannabis can enhance gaming experiences by making them more immersive and fun. But as far as improving your actual skills, well, that remains to be seen.
