Gamers are constantly looking for ways to get an edge in competitive games or enhance their solo play. Some people simply go for a soda or coffee. Others dedicate themselves to hours of studying YouTube videos, online guides, and playing the game over and over to get the skills needed.

However, many gamers also rely on marijuana and the intoxicating cannabinoid tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) to get the same effects without all the hassle. If you’re a gamer that uses marijuana while playing, you likely have tons of anecdotal evidence to support the claim that being “high” makes the game better and makes you a beast. 

In fact, from my own experiences, I would take a few tokes (or eat a “magic” brownie) before going to Super Smash Bros. Brawl tournaments during my university years. I can attest that my gameplay improved versus when I came to the tourney completely sober. And my friends and I would constantly smoke during our own friendly practice sessions– and the bouts were tense.

Even though I don’t use as much as I did back then today, hitting my vape pen before diving into the majestic world of Breath of the Wild makes the experience more fun when I’m being chased by Guardians or working to solve shrine puzzles. 

However, one downside I’ve found is that after the high wears off, I’m left tired or uninterested. So I’ve recently wondered, what about CBD? Can CBD make me (and gamers like me) perform better at my favorite games? And will it make the game more “fun” just like with THC?

That’s what we’re going to explore in this article. We’ll first go over what CBD is (for the uninitiated and curious), and then we’ll look at what positive benefits CBD provides that could accentuate your skills and enhance the overall experience of video games.

CBD vs THC Explained

Before we can dive into whether CBD can take your gaming to the next level or not, we need to understand what CBD is. Simply put, CBD is short for cannabidiol, which is the second most abundant molecule inside the marijuana plant– behind its well-known cousin tetrahydrocannabinol or THC. 

THC is the main component that’s responsible for the “high” feeling people get when consuming marijuana. When it enters the brain, it imitates a natural neurotransmitter present in our brain called anandamide. Anandamide does a lot such as helping with controlled movements, our motivation levels, and other cognitive processes such as memory retention. However, it always plays a critical role in your pleasure-reward system.

That’s why when THC binds tightly to receptors in our brains called CB1, it can elicit feelings of happiness, enhance creativity, and much more. 

CBD, on the other hand, binds to the same CB1 receptors but much more loosely, and CBD regulates the way these receptors send and receive signals. 

Ok, enough with the science lesson. But we say all of this because it simply means you can get many of the same positive effects from CBD without the intoxicating effects you get from THC.

So, Will CBD Help Me Better Gamer or Not?

Unfortunately, the answer isn’t a simple “yes” because there are many variables at play. And there isn’t much research on the subject as far as CBD and video games specifically, but there are ways CBD can help with your gaming experience.

The first way is through increased focus and cognitive abilities, which are critical for competitive games. Whenever your focus wavers, you’re giving the competition a chance to capitalize on that moment. It also can help you make decisions quicker.

And even in non-competitive situations, the better focus means you play longer and get in those crucial hours of practice– which ultimately makes you a better player. It also helps you get in the zone, where you’re more likely to reach a “flow state,” which lets you effortlessly pull off tricks and get that long-distance headshot. Think of it as Goku’s Ultra Instinct if you’re a Dragonball fan.

Another benefit of CBD for gamers is that it lowers stress and anxiety levels. For instance, you’re probably a beast when playing alone or with close friends. That’s because you’re comfortable and don’t have as much pressure. But when you go online or to a tournament, stress and anxiety seep in and affect your gameplay. CBD can reduce those negative feelings, keeping you cool, calm, and collected to give your best performance.

And let’s face it, when you’re winning, the whole experience is better. So yes, CBD can help gamers take their skills and gameplay to the next level.

I Want to Try CBD for Gaming– How Do I Consume It?

The most common way to take CBD is orally through oil extract. There are many companies that make CBD oil, so make sure you find a reputable one. There are also vape pens that use extract where you can feel the effects faster but it doesn’t last as long. And if you’re going for long gaming sessions, pushing 6 hours or more, then edible gummies or brownies are a good choice. 

The best thing about CBD is that it doesn’t get you “high,” so you keep all of your mental faculties. And there aren’t many side effects– and it’s nearly impossible to overdose. However, if it’s your first time, it’s best to start slowly with low dosage amounts until you’re familiar with your tolerance and how your body reacts to it.

And CBD oil has benefits that go beyond gaming such as reducing inflammation and pain, helping with nausea and vomiting, assisting with depression, improving sleep quality, and much more. 

Finally, you don’t have to worry about failing a drug test if you’re on a competitive esports team and work at a place that’s anti-THC.

Tell us below: have you tried CBD to improve your gaming skills and experience? We’d love for you to share your stories with us!