Why Do Some Games Cause Motion Sickness And How To Reduce Symptoms

For millions of gamers, immersive virtual environments are a source of excitement and escape. Yet for a significant number, these same experiences bring nausea, dizziness, and fatigue—symptoms collectively known as simulation sickness or visually induced motion sickness. Unlike traditional motion sickness caused by physical movement, this condition arises when the brain receives conflicting signals from the eyes and inner ear. First-person shooters, racing games, and VR titles are common culprits. Understanding the root causes and practical solutions can transform an uncomfortable session into an enjoyable one.

The Science Behind Gaming Motion Sickness

Motion sickness in video games stems from a sensory mismatch. When you're playing a game, your eyes perceive movement—racing down a track, turning corners, or flying through space. However, your vestibular system (the balance mechanism in your inner ear) detects no corresponding physical motion. This disconnect confuses the brain, which evolved to interpret such discrepancies as potential poisoning. The result? Nausea, sweating, dizziness, and sometimes vomiting—a protective response gone awry in a digital context.

This phenomenon is especially pronounced in virtual reality (VR), where the visual field is wide, immersive, and closely mimics real-world perception. But even flat-screen games with fast camera movements, low frame rates, or narrow fields of view can trigger symptoms. The brain struggles to reconcile what it sees with what the body feels, leading to discomfort that can last well beyond gameplay.

“Up to 40% of people report some level of discomfort when using VR, and many stop playing due to motion sickness.” — Dr. Thomas Stoffregen, Director of the Moving & Standing Laboratory, University of Minnesota

Game Design Factors That Trigger Symptoms

Certain technical and design elements in games significantly increase the risk of motion sickness. Developers are increasingly aware of these issues, but not all prioritize player comfort equally. Key factors include:

• Camera movement: Floating or swaying cameras, especially in first-person perspectives, create unnatural motion cues.
• Frame rate inconsistency: Dips below 60 frames per second disrupt visual flow and strain the eyes.
• Field of view (FOV): A narrow FOV can produce tunnel vision, increasing disorientation.
• Artificial locomotion: Smooth walking or teleportation in VR without physical movement heightens sensory conflict.
• Visual complexity: Overly busy environments with flashing lights or rapid scene transitions overwhelm the visual cortex.

Games like *Resident Evil 7* in VR, *Elite Dangerous*, and *Cyberpunk 2077* have drawn criticism for inducing discomfort due to camera behavior and rendering techniques. Conversely, titles like *Beat Saber* and *Superhot VR* minimize artificial movement and instead use natural pacing, making them more accessible.

Tip: If a game lets you adjust the field of view, increase it to match your peripheral vision—this reduces visual stress.

Practical Strategies to Reduce Motion Sickness

While game design plays a major role, players aren’t powerless. Many effective techniques can mitigate or prevent symptoms before they start. These range from hardware adjustments to behavioral changes.

Optimize Your Display Settings

Your screen setup has a direct impact on comfort. High refresh rates (120Hz or higher) and stable frame delivery reduce flicker and judder, both of which contribute to eye strain and dizziness. Use vertical sync (V-Sync) or adaptive sync technologies like G-Sync or FreeSync to eliminate screen tearing.

Additionally, ensure your monitor or headset is properly calibrated. In VR, incorrect IPD (interpupillary distance) settings can cause double vision and headaches. Adjust the lenses to match your eye spacing precisely.

Use Comfort-Focused Game Options

Many modern games include built-in accessibility features. Look for:

• Smooth locomotion alternatives (e.g., teleportation in VR)
• Reduced camera bobbing
• Static reticles or fixed reference points
• Vignettes during movement (darkened edges to limit peripheral motion)
• Comfort modes that stabilize the horizon

Activating these options can make a dramatic difference, especially for newcomers to VR or fast-paced 3D games.

Take Frequent Breaks

Gradual acclimatization is key. Start with short sessions—10 to 15 minutes—and gradually increase duration as your tolerance builds. The brain can adapt over time, but pushing too hard too soon often leads to setbacks.

Aim for a 5–10 minute break every 30 minutes. Step away from the screen, focus on a distant stationary object, and breathe deeply. This resets your visual and vestibular systems.

Tip: Use a timer to enforce regular breaks—don’t rely on discomfort as your cue to stop.

Step-by-Step Guide to Building Tolerance

If you're prone to motion sickness but want to enjoy immersive games, follow this gradual exposure plan:

1. Start with non-moving environments: Play seated, static-view games like puzzle adventures or turn-based strategy titles.
2. Introduce mild motion: Move to third-person games or first-person games with slow, predictable camera movement.
3. Incorporate VR with teleportation: Begin with VR experiences that avoid continuous movement (e.g., *The Room VR*).
4. Gradually enable smooth locomotion: Increase exposure in small increments, using comfort settings.
5. Monitor symptoms: Keep a log of what triggers discomfort and adjust accordingly.
6. Build up to 30+ minute sessions: Only progress when you’ve consistently tolerated the current level.

This method mirrors vestibular rehabilitation therapy used in clinical settings. Consistency and patience yield better long-term results than forced exposure.

Do’s and Don’ts at a Glance

Do	Don’t
Adjust field of view to match your natural vision	Play with a narrow FOV setting
Use wired controllers to reduce input lag	Rely on Bluetooth with high latency
Sit still while playing; avoid moving your body independently	Pace or sway while immersed
Play in a well-lit room to ground your sense of space	Game in complete darkness
Stay hydrated and avoid heavy meals before playing	Eat greasy food right before a VR session

Real-World Example: Sarah’s VR Journey

Sarah, a 29-year-old graphic designer, was excited to try VR after hearing rave reviews about *Half-Life: Alyx*. Within five minutes of gameplay, she felt dizzy and nauseated. Discouraged, she assumed VR wasn’t for her. After reading about motion sickness mitigation, she decided to reattempt with a structured approach.

She started with *Moss*, a third-person VR adventure with minimal camera movement. Sessions were limited to 10 minutes, with breaks in between. Over two weeks, she gradually introduced titles with more motion, always using teleportation instead of smooth locomotion. She adjusted her headset’s IPD and increased the in-game FOV. By week four, she could play *Alyx* for 25 minutes without symptoms. Today, she enjoys VR regularly, proving that adaptation is possible with the right strategy.

Supplements and Physical Techniques

While no supplement cures gaming-induced motion sickness, some may help reduce susceptibility. Ginger, in capsule or tea form, has been shown in studies to ease nausea. Over-the-counter options like meclizine (Bonine) or dimenhydrinate (Dramamine) can be effective but may cause drowsiness—best used sparingly and not before important tasks.

Physical grounding techniques also help. Pressing your feet firmly against the floor or placing your hands on a stable surface provides tactile feedback that counteracts visual motion. Some users report success with “nose pinching”—gently pressing the bridge of the nose to stimulate the trigeminal nerve, which may help recalibrate sensory input.

“Sensory integration training, like balancing exercises or gaze stabilization drills, can improve resilience to motion conflicts over time.” — Dr. Amy Bower, Neuroscientist specializing in spatial orientation

FAQ

Can children outgrow gaming motion sickness?

Some children may become less sensitive as their vestibular systems mature, but others remain susceptible into adulthood. It's best to introduce immersive games gradually and monitor for signs of discomfort.

Is motion sickness worse on consoles vs. PC?

It depends more on frame rate and input lag than platform. PCs often allow finer control over graphics settings, enabling smoother performance. However, a well-optimized console game with consistent 60 FPS can be just as comfortable.

Does screen size affect motion sickness?

Yes. Larger screens or headsets that fill your peripheral vision increase immersion—and risk. Smaller displays may feel less intense but can also reduce engagement. Finding a balance through adjustable settings is ideal.

Checklist: How to Prepare for a Comfortable Gaming Session

• ✅ Calibrate your display or headset (refresh rate, FOV, IPD)
• ✅ Enable comfort settings (vignette, teleportation, reduced bobbing)
• ✅ Sit in a stable chair with good back support
• ✅ Ensure the room is well-lit with visible static objects
• ✅ Hydrate and avoid heavy meals beforehand
• ✅ Set a timer for 15-minute intervals to take breaks
• ✅ Keep ginger tea or snacks nearby if prone to nausea
• ✅ Start with low-motion games and build tolerance gradually

Conclusion

Motion sickness doesn’t have to be a barrier to enjoying modern gaming. With awareness of the physiological causes and access to proven strategies, most players can reduce or eliminate symptoms entirely. From adjusting technical settings to adopting smarter play habits, the tools are within reach. The key is patience and personalization—what works for one person may not work for another. By listening to your body and making informed choices, you can reclaim the joy of immersive gameplay without the discomfort.

💬 Have a tip that helped you beat gaming motion sickness? Share your experience in the comments—your insight could help someone finally enjoy their favorite VR title.