What gives more dopamine: movies or online games?

The brain’s “feel good” chemical is dopamine. Its significance in motivation, pleasure and reward is beyond comparison. Dopamine can be released by both movies and online games, but in two different ways. Some get more excitement when watching movies, others while gaming. Which one, therefore, produces more dopamine? Let’s find out.

How Dopamine Works in Entertainment

When we experience something enjoyable, dopamine is released. It encourages us to seek more of that experience. 

• Movies and games trigger the brain’s reward system.
• A higher release of dopamine can come about by unexpected surprises.
• Passive ones do not generate much dopamine, while an interactive activity is likely to raise dopamine levels. 

The main difference between movies and games is the way that they engage the brain.

Dopamine Release in Movies

Storytelling, visuals and sound tell you a story in movies. Dopamine levels are affected by how a movie builds up suspense and delivers surprises.

• Excitement is increased by intense action scenes.
• There is a sense of connection from emotional moments.
• This increases plot twists and surprises that also cause dopamine spikes.

Notwithstanding, movies tend to be less active than interactive activities, and therefore the levels of the dopamine release tend to be lower. The experience is enjoyed, yet no decisions are being made.

The Role of Immersion in Dopamine Release

A lot is determined by how much dopamine is released, and that has a lot to do with immersion. The more engaged you are, the more pleasure your brain feels.

• Storytelling and visuals can create immersion in movies
• Picking up a game encourages players to feel included in the action. 
• Virtual reality (VR) gaming is even more immersive.

Games usually offer a higher level of immersion and interaction contributes to a greater dopamine release than passive movie-watching.

Social Interaction and Dopamine

Dopamine also depends on social experience. It is easier to experience entertainment when sharing it with someone else.