In recent years, the boundary between video games and real life has become increasingly blurred for some players. This phenomenon, known as Game Transfer Phenomenon (GTP), manifests in various ways, from involuntary physical reactions to altered perceptions of reality. Christian Dines, a sustainability advisor based in the U.S., recalls experiencing twitching hands after playing a game, as if he were still holding a controller. Alongside this, he noticed an urge to "collect" items around him, reminiscent of gathering power-ups in the virtual world.

GTP is not just limited to subjective experiences. It involves changes in perception that can be unsettling or even dangerous. Angelica Ortiz de Gortari, a psychologist at the University of Bergen, Norway, first identified GTP while observing her own behavior. She describes how, during a supermarket visit, she imagined viewing products through a rifle scope, much like in a game. Her research indicates that nearly half of those who experience GTP report distress and dysfunction, with symptoms including confusion and hyper-vigilance. Some participants have described seeing health bars above people's heads, akin to those in role-playing games, while others mention lapses in concentration due to lingering game imagery.

As gaming environments grow more realistic and immersive, the likelihood of GTP increases. According to Ortiz de Gortari, the sophistication of modern games facilitates these crossover experiences. Industry professionals like Ali Farha from Star Stable Entertainment suggest strategies to mitigate GTP, such as taking regular breaks and engaging in alternative activities post-gaming. While most gamers do not encounter significant issues, raising awareness about GTP remains crucial. Understanding its causes could enhance both player experiences and developer practices, ensuring that the virtual-reality bridge enriches rather than disrupts lives.