Unswitch study reveals music can have a significant impact on gaming performance

Online gamers who listen to techno or classical music have better success when playing, according to new research from Uswitch.com.

Classical music had a huge impact on those playing Tetris, with almost half (44 per cent) of players reporting an increase in game scores compared to those who played in silence^[1]. 

Graphic 1: The impact of stimulus on performance 

Those listening to more upbeat techno music also saw a 39 per cent increase in scores while playing the same game^[2].

Of those between 18 and 35 years old, three quarters play games for more than 3 hours per week^[3]. 

While listening to techno music, women appear to perform better than men when playing Tetris. When looking at the average points and reaction times between men and women however, men appeared to perform between 5-13 per  cent better than women^[2].

Uswitch offers broadband advice to frequent gamers to improve their online gameplay, including high quality graphics and avoiding lags while playing^[3].

Max Beckett, broadband expert at Uswitch.com comments: “It’s interesting to see how listening to certain types of music can have a significant impact on gaming performance, whether that be techno, classical or perhaps something else. 

“For those who want to game more competitively and stream music to improve performance, you will need a strong and reliable broadband connection. So, a package offering great and speeds will help ensure you get the edge over your opponents.

“With the biggest video games now weighing in at a huge 100GB in size, a 100Mbps connection will mean you’ll only have to wait around 2 and a half hours to it, compared to almost 22 hours on a 11Mbps connection.

“It’s always worth using an online speed test to see how your broadband is currently performing, and if it’s not up to scratch run a comparison online to see what alternative options are available to you.

“Before you choose a deal, check what speeds your favourite games require, to ensure that you’re not paying more than you need.”

Methodology

The study was conducted by Customer Experience Lab, commissioned from Uswitch.com. 

The study included 404 participants across 4 studies: control, techno music, classical music and coffee.

The participants were split 50% female and 50% male. 

The participants included 25% of non gamers and 75% of regular gamers. 

1. The study found that 44% of people performed better when gaming compared to playing the same game (Tetris) without any music at all. 
2. The study found that 39% of people who listened to techno music whilst playing strategy game Tetris found that their scores were higher whilst listening compared to no music. 
3. The study was prefaced with asking gamers how many hours they played games per week. 

Find out more about the study here.