A longitudinal neuroimaging study identified two subtypes of individuals based on impulsivity-linked resting-state functional connectivity, with one subtype showing a ~3–4× higher 2-year risk of developing internet gaming disorder (IGD). This high-risk group was characterized by reduced orbitofrontal (control-related) connectivity and increased occipital (impulsivity-related) connectivity, with specific brain circuits partially mediating the relationship between baseline impulsivity and later IGD severity.