Does VPN hurt gaming?

As a gamer, I've heard conflicting opinions about whether using a VPN can negatively impact my gaming experience. Some say it can slow down my connection and increase latency, while others claim it can actually improve security and unblock geo-restricted content. But what's the real story? Can using a VPN hurt my gaming, or can it actually enhance my experience in some way? I'm looking for a clear and concise answer that takes into account the potential pros and cons of using a VPN while gaming.