Posted on September 26, 2022 by Munchies

Cannabis could be your trump card for gaming. Finding the best weed for gaming can help relax you while also providing you with a bit of focus, energy, and a fast reaction time. Indeed, for some people, gaming weed can make playing video games much more enjoyable.

Reddit users have shared their favorite go-to strains that enhance their gaming sessions, whether you’re strategizing in intense battles or unwinding with an open-world adventure. From Jack Herer’s balanced focus to Granddaddy Purple’s deep relaxation, these community favorites can match your vibe perfectly. Curious to know what these strains are? We’ve compiled the latest list for you. 

Key Takeaways 

  • Reddit users highlight strains like Jack Herer for focus and creativity, Blue Dream for relaxation and mild euphoria, and Granddaddy Purple for deep relaxation during gaming.
  • Strains are matched to different gaming genres, with Sativa-dominant hybrids suggested for strategic games and Indica strains for immersive, relaxed play.
  • Key benefits include mood elevation, stress relief, enhanced creativity, and reduced anxiety, making gaming more enjoyable and engaging.
  • Gamers stress the importance of considering personal tolerance levels and desired effects, as cannabis can affect individuals differently.
  • Energetic Sativa strains are preferred for daytime gaming, while Indica strains are favored for evening or relaxed sessions without disrupting sleep.

Sativa or Indica for Gaming

One of the first considerations to remember is what type of weed you want in terms of the Indica and Sativa split. Indica and Sativa are very different types of marijuana. 

The Indica side will produce extreme relaxation, thoughtfulness, peacefulness, lethargy, and couch lock, often making people sleepy, too.

Most people would refer to Indica as a sleepy-time weed. That said, that’s probably not the best way to go for gaming, at least not for very intense games that require a lot of focus.

You must have a quick reaction time, a good bit of energy, and some focus when trying to eliminate the opposing team without getting ripped to pieces. Well, this is precisely what Sativa strains of marijuana are known for, so they do tend to be better for gaming.

However, some people prefer to use sativa strains just for relaxation. For many people, the calming effect of Sativa weed strains allows them to keep playing without getting too frustrated. Also, Sativa tends to be a good choice for slow-paced games that don’t require too much focus or energy.

Sativa and Sativa-Dominant Strains for Gaming

Gamers often prefer Sativa and Sativa-dominant strains due to their energizing and focus-enhancing effects. These strains typically provide a cerebral high that can improve concentration, creativity, and energy levels, which benefits many gaming experiences.

Sour Diesel

Sour Diesel is a highly popular Sativa strain among gamers because of its energizing and stress-relieving effects when the game gets tough:

  • Energizing and Uplifting Effects -Sour Diesel is known for its fast-acting and energizing high. This can help gamers stay alert and engaged during long gaming sessions.
  • Enhanced Focus and Creativity – Users often report improved concentration and creative thinking. This can be particularly beneficial for strategy games or titles that require problem-solving skills.
  • Stress Relief –  While energizing, Sour Diesel is also reported to help with stress relief, which can help manage tension during competitive gaming.
  • Long-lasting Effects—Sour Diesel’s effects tend to be long-lasting, making it suitable for extended gaming sessions.
  • Suitability for Competitive Gaming – Its focus-enhancing properties make it popular among competitive gamers who need to maintain sharp reflexes and quick decision-making skills.

Green Crack

Despite its controversial name, Green Crack is another favorite Sativa strain in the gaming community:

  • Invigorating Effects  – Green Crack is renowned for its intensely energizing effects, which can help gamers maintain high levels of alertness and engagement.
  • Sharp Focus – Users often report enhanced focus and mental clarity, which can be crucial for games requiring quick reflexes or strategic thinking.
  • Mood Enhancement –  It’s known to induce a sense of euphoria, potentially making gaming sessions more enjoyable.
  • Daytime Use – Its energizing properties make it suitable for daytime gaming sessions.
  • Suitability for Fast-paced Gaming – Green Crack’s heightened alertness and focus make It popular for fast-paced or competitive gaming scenarios.

Jack Herer

Jack Herer is a Sativa-leaning hybrid that has gained popularity among gamers. Here’s more about its effects:

  • Balanced High – As a hybrid, Jack Herer offers a more balanced experience than pure Sativas. It provides mental stimulation without being overwhelming.
  • Enhanced Focus and Creativity – Users report improved concentration and creative thinking, which can benefit various gaming genres.
  • Mood Elevation – Jack Herer is known for its uplifting effects, potentially making gaming sessions more enjoyable.
  • Versatility –  Its balanced effects suit various gaming genres, from strategy games to more relaxed, open-world experiences.
  • Reduced Anxiety –  Some users report that Jack Herer can help reduce anxiety, which might be beneficial for gamers who experience nervousness during play.

Blue Dream

Blue Dream is a Sativa-dominant hybrid cannabis strain that has gained significant popularity among cannabis users, including gamers:

  • Balanced Experience of Relaxation and Mild Euphoria – Blue Dream provides a well-balanced high that combines relaxation with mild euphoria. It can help reduce stress and tension, making gamers feel more comfortable during long gaming sessions.
  • Enhanced Creativity – The strain can benefit users in problem-solving games, especially in open-world or strategy games.
  • Ideal for Different Gaming Styles and Genres – The strain’s effects are not too overwhelming in any direction, making it adaptable to shifts in gaming style or genre during a session.

Indica and Indica-Dominant Strains for Gaming

While Sativa strains are often the go-to choice for many gamers, some players prefer Indica or Indica-dominant strains, especially for more relaxed gaming sessions. These strains can offer a different gaming experience, particularly suitable for certain types of games or gaming situations. 

Granddaddy Purple (GDP)

Granddaddy Purple is a popular Indica strain with effects and characteristics that garnered love among gamers:

  • Deep Relaxation – GDP is known for inducing a profound state of relaxation. This can benefit gamers who want to unwind while playing, especially after a stressful day.
  • Stress Relief – The strain is effective in helping users de-stress. This can translate to a more enjoyable and less tense gaming experience for gamers, particularly in non-competitive scenarios.
  • Evening Gaming –  GDP is ideal for evening gaming sessions. Its relaxing properties make it suitable for winding down with a game before bed.
  • Physical Effects – Users often report a fusion of cerebral euphoria and physical relaxation. This can enhance the immersive experience of certain games, especially those with rich, detailed environments.
  • Pain Relief—GDP is also known for its potential to alleviate pain, which could benefit gamers who experience discomfort during long gaming sessions.

Northern Lights

Northern Lights is another Indica strain that some gamers favor. Here’s more information about its effects and why some gamers appreciate it:

  • Calming Effects – Northern Lights is renowned for its ability to induce a sense of calm and tranquility. This can be particularly helpful for gamers who tend to get overly excited or stressed during gameplay.
  • Anxiety and Stress Reduction – The strain is often chosen for its potential to reduce anxiety and stress. This makes it suitable for gamers who experience nervousness or anxiety while playing, especially in competitive or high-pressure gaming situations.
  • Relaxation Without Sedation – While deeply relaxing, Northern Lights typically doesn’t cause excessive sedation, allowing gamers to remain engaged in their games.
  • Pain Relief – Like GDP, Northern Lights is also known for its pain-relieving properties, which can benefit extended gaming sessions.
  • Mood Enhancement – Users often report a sense of euphoria and happiness, which can contribute to an overall positive gaming experience.

Other Noteworthy Strains For Gaming 

Durban Poison

Durban Poison is a pure sativa strain from South Africa. It is renowned for its uplifting and energizing effects, making it a favorite among gamers for enhancing focus and creativity during gaming. Users often describe it as providing a clear-headed high that allows them to remain productive and engaged without causing fatigue. 

Rainbow Driver

Rainbow Driver is less commonly known but has gained attention among cannabis enthusiasts. This strain is typically characterized as being versatile, providing a balanced high that can enhance creativity and focus. While specific user reports on its effects may vary, it is considered enjoyable for social gaming and casual play, contributing to a relaxed yet engaged mindset. 

Cuban Linx

Cuban Linx is a Sativa-dominant hybrid that fans often report provides energizing and euphoric effects. This strain is appreciated for its ability to inspire creativity and motivation, helping gamers to remain alert and engaged during their sessions. Users often use it to enhance social interactions or dynamic gameplay while also reporting some potential for anxiety relief.

Platinum Grapes

Platinum Grapes is a hybrid strain noted for its relaxing yet uplifting effects. It often gives users a pleasant and euphoric high that enhances gaming enjoyment. Reports suggest it can help alleviate stress while keeping players engaged, making it suitable for casual and competitive gaming sessions.

Super Silver Haze

Super Silver Haze is a Sativa-dominant hybrid known for its long-lasting, energetic effects. This strain typically enhances mood and creativity, making it an excellent choice for gamers seeking motivation and focus. Many players report that it helps maintain attention during long gaming sessions without causing exhaustion, which is particularly beneficial for intense gaming experiences.

Gaming Specific Strains

Donkey Kong Strain

Donkey Kong is an Indica-dominant strain with roughly 90% Indica and 10% Sativa. It’s a cross between Banana OG and Death Star, complete with a 19% Delta 9 THC level, so it’s not overly strong. 

Its aroma consists of earthiness, citrus, pine, and diesel. It tends to produce feelings of relaxation, euphoria, sleepiness, and tingling in the extremities and has sedative effects. It’s a perfect strain of weed for a relaxed and slow-paced afternoon of gaming—rather than throwing barrels from the tops of skyscrapers with this bud!

Warhammer Strain

This Indica strain, technically a hybrid, is roughly 85% Indica and 15% Sativa. It was created by crossing the Super Skunk and Warlock strains. This weed hits hard and fast and is known for producing sensations of bliss, happiness, euphoria, and a hint of relaxation and hunger. 

It has up to 22% Delta 9 THC, so it is quite strong. It also has a really nice skunky flavor. It is also great at reducing headaches and nausea. If you are a fan of Indicas, then this strain could be right for you.

Zelda Runtz Strain

The Zelda Runtz strain is a good hybrid strain of weed for gaming, one that is about 50/50 Indica and Sativa and can be quite strong, just like the TriForce. Although some varieties come in at just 18% Delta 9 THC concentrations, there are also instances where this strain can contain as much as 26% Delta 9 THC, so it can be very strong. 

Users would prefer this is a hybrid strain, as it brings them the best of both worlds for gaming. It doesn’t produce feelings of couch lock, yet it’s not overly energizing, either. The strain produces feelings of creativity and relaxation and makes people a little talkative. Zelda Runtz Strain is a great daytime and afternoon weed, no doubt.

Forza Sour Strain

The Forza Sour is another good hybrid weed strain that is perfect for reviving your gaming. It is a mix of Wedding Cake and Sour Best Shit Ever, which tends to produce a level and mellow high. The strain is not overly energizing and will not have you sinking deep into the couch. It can make you feel relaxed yet creative and hungry simultaneously.

Halo Halo Strain

Halo Halo, or Halo OG, is a cross between Karry OG and Tahoe OG, an Indica-dominant strain. This weed strain is well known for having insane levels of Delta 9 THC of up to 28%, so it is very strong. It also has a very strong pine flavor that people love. 

Like Master Chief, people say this weed strain hits like a freight train. It offers a super relaxing body high that is perfect for sitting on the couch and playing some slow-paced games.

Knock Out Punch Strain

Here, we have a Sativa-dominant strain with moderate to high levels of Delta 9 THC, boasting a very sweet and candy-like flavor. Many people see this as a great gaming weed, as it produces feelings of euphoria and relaxation, although it can also make you feel calm and drowsy. While this strain is best left before bedtime, it can be ideal for later-day gaming or winding down.

Sonic Boom Strain

Sonic boom is a Sativa-dominant strain that can contain up to 26% Delta 9 THC. It features aromas of spiciness, sweetness, and sourness combined with earthy and skunky notes. The strain produces a strong high with feelings of creativity, euphoria, and focus. Most people would say this is one of the best gaming weeds if you must stay awake and focused.

Considerations for Choosing a Gaming Strain

When selecting a cannabis strain for gaming, Reddit users emphasize the importance of considering several key factors. These considerations help ensure that the chosen strain enhances the gaming experience while aligning with the individual’s needs and preferences.

Individual Preferences and Tolerance Levels

One of the most crucial factors in choosing a gaming strain is considering personal preferences and tolerance levels. This is because cannabis affects each individual differently, and what works well for one person may not be suitable for another. Gamers usually consider these factors. 

  • Tolerance Level – Users with low tolerance might prefer strains with lower Delta 9 THC content or balanced THC: CBD ratios. For instance, some users recommend strains with around 8% Delta 9 THC and 12% CBD for those with low tolerance and anxiety concerns.
  • Experience with Cannabis – More experienced users or those with higher tolerance might seek out more potent strains. For example, some users recommend strains with Delta 9 THC levels as high as 37% for those with high tolerance.
  • Personal Sensitivity –  Some users might be more sensitive to specific effects of cannabis, such as anxiety or paranoia. In such cases, they might prefer strains known for their calming effects or those with higher CBD content.

Type of Game Being Played

The game’s nature is another critical consideration when choosing a strain. Different types of games may benefit from different strain effects:

  • Competitive or Fast-Paced Games – Many users prefer Sativa or Sativa-dominant hybrid strains for these games. These are believed to enhance focus, alertness, and reaction times. For example, some users recommend Sativa-leaning strains for shooter games to maintain focus.
  • Strategic or Puzzle Games –  For games that require problem-solving and strategic thinking, balanced hybrids or strains known for enhancing creativity might be preferred.
  • Immersive or Story-Driven Games – For more relaxed, immersive gaming experiences, some users prefer Indica or Indica-dominant strains that promote relaxation and enhance sensory experiences.

Desired Effects

The specific effects that a gamer is looking for can significantly influence their strain choice. Commonly desired effects include:

  • Focus and Alertness – Users often recommend strains high in terpenes like Pinene or Terpinolene for enhanced concentration.
  • Creativity – Some gamers seek strains that boost creativity, which can benefit open-world or sandbox-style games.
  • Relaxation – Some users prefer strains known for their relaxing effects for a more laid-back gaming experience, particularly for single-player or story-driven games.
  • Mood Enhancement – Many gamers look for strains that can make their gaming sessions more enjoyable by inducing euphoria or happiness.

Time of Day and Length of Gaming Session

The timing and duration of the gaming session also influences the user’s decision in strain selection:

  • Daytime Gaming – Many users prefer more energizing strains, often Sativas or Sativa-dominant hybrids, for daytime sessions.
  • Evening or Night Gaming – Some gamers prefer relaxing strains that won’t interfere with sleep patterns for evening or night sessions. Indica or Indica hybrids are often recommended for this purpose.
  • Long Gaming Sessions –  For extended gaming periods, users might look for strains with longer-lasting effects or those that don’t cause fatigue over time.

Final Thoughts 

​While many Reddit users report positive experiences with certain cannabis strains and gaming, it’s essential to remember that the effects can vary from person to person.​ Experimentation and moderation are key to finding the ideal strain and dosage for an enhanced gaming experience. ​Each strain mentioned in the list has unique effects that cater to different gaming styles and preferences, allowing players to choose based on their desired gaming experience.​ The variations in effects underscore the importance of personal tolerance and selection when using cannabis during gaming.

(Disclaimer reminder: This article is not medical advice. It is based on anecdotal user experience alone. If you are thinking about incorporating cannabis (delta-8 THC, delta-9 THC, CBD, etc) into your medicinal routine, please consult a healthcare professional. Do not stop taking any prescribed medications without first consulting your doctor.)

Disclaimer: This article reflects the laws of the United States at the time it was written. Because cannabis laws in the United States laws are subject to change at any time, please make sure that you are always staying up to date on your federal, state, and local county’s cannabis laws. Additionally, we are NOT encouraging anyone to break the law––we are simply showing people ways to legally and discreetly bring their cannabis products along with them on their travels so that they may have access to those products when they reach their intended destination.

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