[Industry news] GTA 6 WARNING: AS ONE IN FOUR PLAN TO PLAY FOR MORE THAN 40 HOURS IN THE FIRST WEEK

This is a press release posted alongside our usual editorial content.

With Grand Theft Auto VI finally set to launch on 19 November, gamers planning marathon sessions are being warned against spending hours playing the long-awaited game.

A survey found that almost a quarter (24%) of gamers plan to spend more than 40 hours playing GTA VI during its first week, while 29% said they had taken time off work or education for the launch.^[1]

The warning comes as research from mobility specialists Muick Sandy found that Google searches for “pain from gaming” have soared by 372% in the last 12 months.^[2]

With millions of gamers expected to spend the equivalent of a full week playing, Muick Sandy is reminding players of the dangers of spending prolonged periods sitting in the same position for hours.

Ben Kenny, Director and Mobility Chair Specialist at Muick Sandy, has shared five tips to help gamers avoid aches and pains while playing GTA VI:

“With a release as anticipated as GTA VI, it’s understandable that some people will want to spend hours playing, particularly during that first weekend.

“If you’re planning a marathon session, build regular movement breaks into it from the start to help avoid any pains and aches.

“Get up between missions, walk around the room, grab some water or simply spend a few minutes away from the screen before sitting back down.

“Even while you’re playing, try not to remain completely fixed in one posture. Shift your position periodically and pay attention if you start feeling stiff or uncomfortable. Don’t ignore any pains or discomfort just to finish another mission.”

FIVE WAYS TO STAY COMFORTABLE DURING A GTA 6 GAMING SESSION

1. Use natural breaks as a reminder to move

Loading screens, mission changes, food breaks, or trips to refill a drink are all opportunities to get out of your chair and move around. Building movement into natural pauses can be easier than relying on yourself to remember once you’re immersed in the game.

2. Don’t wait until you feel uncomfortable

If you’ve already developed stiffness or discomfort, you may have been sitting in the same position for longer than is comfortable. Make a conscious effort to change position regularly rather than waiting for your body to remind you.

3. Pay attention to your seating setup

Your gaming chair doesn’t necessarily need to be expensive, but you should be able to sit comfortably and feel supported. Avoid perching on the edge of the seat or repeatedly leaning forward towards the screen for long periods.

4. Position your screen comfortably

A screen that’s awkwardly positioned can encourage you to crane your neck, lean forward, or twist your body while playing. Set up your screen so you can comfortably see it from your normal sitting position.

5. Don’t turn a day of gaming into a day without movement

If you’re planning a particularly long session, make sure gaming isn’t the only thing you do that day. Going for a walk, leaving the house or simply moving around between sessions can help break up long stretches of sitting.