The study will start by pushing the boundaries of reflexes and cognitive-motor skills, testing whether top speed and accuracy can be maintained into players’ 30s.

Esports pros often retire in their mid-30s due to mental burnout and brutal practice and tournament schedules, a pattern seen across titles like Overwatch, CS:GO, and Super Smash Bros. Melee.

ZETA DIVISION’s own Momochi and Higuchi (Street Fighter 6) will participate in the early phase to provide real-world data on the demands of high-speed play and relentless pressure.

ZETA DIVISION has teamed up with Nakazawa Laboratory at the University of Tokyo to study how to extend pros’ careers by sharpening reflexes, cognitive function, motor control, and related skills.

The project aims to counter burnout and age-related decline that contribute to early exits, seeking ways to sustain peak performance longer.

Researchers will analyze neurological and motor data to pinpoint training methods and environments that preserve elite performance as players age.