An algorithm that knows when you'll get bored with your favorite mobile game
Researchers have developed a new algorithm that predicts when a user will leave a mobile game. This information is useful for game studios so that they can design strategies to maintain the player's interest. Ref. Source 4w.
While they can fight off boredom and some games may fight depression, I think playing them constantly and neglecting your real life could ultimately lead to more depression.
I know I for one am someone who gets depressed when I feel like I haven't been productive for the day.
The real problem is that these industries are businesses, and like many big businesses do, they will peddle any kind of positive information if it will raise sales, regardless of whether the information is factual. Most studies aren't conclusive unless multiple studies have been done that support the same conclusion.
I know it is very easy to get lost in a game or on line in a game and forget to do some of the other stuff you need to do. One of the things I have done lately is get all my other stuff done first then I relax and play my games until time for bed. It is a lot of fun and I enjoy myself a lot. Some nights I am chatting with others and even forget to play one of my games.