Military Use of Video Games for Training (Serious Games)

Yes. Modern militaries use serious games / simulation extensively:

Categories

• High-fidelity simulators — Flight (F-35, Apache), armor (Abrams, Leopard), ship bridge, air defense. Millions per seat.
• Tactical decision games — VBS3/4 (Bohemia), Steel Beasts, DCS World (mil versions). Squad/platoon level.
• Cognitive / procedural trainers — IED recognition, ROE drills, language/culture (e.g., Tactical Iraqi).
• VR/AR — IVAS (HoloLens), VR marksmanship, medic triage, maintenance.
• Recruitment / outreach — America's Army (Unreal Engine), Full Spectrum Warrior.

Benefits

• Cost: 1/10–1/100 of live training.
• Safety: Zero live-fire risk.
• Repetition: Unlimited reps, after-action review.
• Data: Every decision logged for AI analysis.

Not "Call of Duty" — purpose-built, validated, instructor-led.