Watching to win: When watching others play improves performance

Despite gamers’ widespread use of observation as a learning strategy, the overall effects of observational learning on in-game performance and conditions for effectiveness are underexplored. We investigated whether and how observation improves gaming performance through two controlled studies using a Super Hexagon clone. Study 1 (n = 23) examined player-observer pairs; Study 2 (n = 69) systematically varied observation content (same vs. randomized obstacle sequences vs. playing instead of observing). Results showed that observers significantly outperformed players when comparing performance after equal play time, in-person and via video, but only when observing the same obstacle sequence. When comparing final performance, playing yielded greater overall improvement than observing. These results provide empirical validation for observational learning in games while identifying sequence-specific observation as an important factor in digital contexts, offering insights into how players and designers can incorporate observation into learning strategies and game design. • Observing others play videogames is an effective learning strategy. • Live observation and pre-recorded videos provide comparable benefits. • Observational learning works best when the content matches upcoming challenges. • While observation is helpful, active practice yields greater performance benefits. • In-person observation naturally results in social learning, without prompting.