In 2022, almost 55% of American adults identified as digital gamers. On average, most gamers spend around three hours a day playing, but some reach as much as six hours on a gaming session. Experts warn against this as the recommended screen time amount is less than two hours daily. Consistently doing this can lead to health risks and vision issues, such as computer vision syndrome. Its symptoms include blurry vision, dry eyes, and headaches, hence the need for high-quality gaming glasses.
Since over 14 million Americans have eye issues, experts are concerned that high screen time may lead to more people experiencing sight problems. Therefore, the eyecare industry has begun releasing a new solution to address this growing problem. Gaming glasses are the latest innovation in the market specifically designed to support the needs of gamers. Continue reading to know more.
What are gaming glasses?
Gaming glasses were first introduced in 2008 when companies began marketing eyewear for treating computer vision syndrome. Since then, more brands have released their lines of specialized gaming glasses, and the glasses have continuously risen in popularity over the years up until today.
This demand comes from how visually demanding gaming sessions are now. Most gamers work hard to get the ideal gaming setup that allows them to play their favorite games at the highest quality. This setup typically includes a decently sized monitor with a high resolution that can render sharp images. A lot of gamers go for bigger monitors, with ultrawide monitors becoming more widespread, as they believe that it enhances their gaming experience. Despite high resolution being better for vision, a bigger screen size makes the eyes uncomfortable, leading to higher chances of eye strain and headaches.
Additionally, all digital monitors emit harsh blue light that is harmful to the eyes. Long-term exposure to blue light can cause blurry vision, cataract development, and poor sleep quality. This may not seem like much, but an irregular sleeping schedule can cause various health problems, such as heart disease, stroke, and depression. Gaming glasses mainly exist to prevent gamers from developing these diseases while doing a hobby that they love.
What are the features of gaming glasses?
Apart from protecting the eyes of games, gaming glasses have added features meant to improve gaming performance.
Visual clarity
A high-resolution monitor will be wasted if you don’t invest in the right pair of glasses to help you appreciate a game’s graphics. It’s a must to find glasses that filter out blue light effectively while reducing the strain from digital screens. Case in point, Oakley’s PRIZM line was precisely designed with this in mind. Besides these benefits, it also enhances color vibrancy and increases visual contrast to provide sharper images on the screen. Additionally, prescription lenses can be used in these gaming glasses to support and further enhance the eyesight of those needing glasses. This gaming eyewear is designed to provide maximum comfort and efficiency.
Adjustable fit
Most gaming glasses are unique compared to standard eyewear as they were made to accommodate gaming headsets. They come with hinges that can adapt to most face shapes, and their nose pads are usually adjustable for a better fit. One example of gaming glasses with adjustable frames is GUNNAR’s Vayper gamer glasses, which come with flexible temples and silicone nose pads. The frames are said to ‘disappear’ under headsets to avoid feeling bulky while gaming, but they are still made out of durable material. Gamers would also be excited to know that GUNNAR is known to collaborate with popular gaming franchises for their frames, such as Assassin’s Creed and Call of Duty.
UV protection
Considering that a huge portion of gamers use their mobile devices to play while on the go, companies have also begun mixing traditional sunglasses with gaming glasses. Similar to blue light, ultraviolet (UV) rays from the sun can also lead to painful eye conditions. So gamers who play outdoors are at risk of UV exposure. Some eyewear brands, such as Horus X, have begun making gaming glasses that also block out UV light completely. The Horus X Gaming Revolution glasses are tinted amber for sun protection while being anti-headache and anti-eye strain for gaming purposes. They are specifically marketed for intense gaming sessions.
As shown, gaming glasses are significantly beneficial and efficient when protecting gamers’ eyes. To ensure maximum protection, don’t forget to wear one before you start playing your next gaming session.
