Study says brains of people playing remote online sync

In an experiment reminiscent of a scene from a science fiction movie, the brains of two individuals playing an online video game separately were synchronized in real time. Participants in the experiment were physically isolated and their brain activity was measured with an electroencephalogram (EEG) hyperscan.

The study, led by researchers at the University of Helsinki in Finland, proved that the brains of people in social interaction can be activated similarly and simultaneously during activity. While this interbrain neural synchronization is often associated with face-to-face empathy and cooperation, this is the first time this is being recorded remotely.

Published in the magazine in September neuropsychologyThe research investigated the synchronization of pairs of players in an online car racing game. Subjects were isolated in two soundproof rooms for the study to evaluate the synchronization link in interaction and game performance.

How was brain synchronization measured?

Because it’s a cooperative multiplayer game, the scientists measured the cooperation of 21 separate couples using EEG during the task. The only interaction between participants during the assessment was the movement of a race car on the screen.It is controlled by pressing buttons by two participants working in different roles controlling the speed or direction of the vehicle.

The evaluation showed that the couples working together on the task had higher neural connectivity in the alpha, beta, and gamma brain frequency bands compared to the performance-correlated sham couples.

In a publication by the University of Helsinki, one of the authors of the study, project manager Katri Saarikivi said, “If we can build interactive digital experiences that activate key empathy mechanisms, this can lead to better social relationships, well-being and online productivity.”

ARTICLE – neuropsychology – DOI: 10.1016/j.neuropsychologia.2022.108316.