Why These Soothing Games Are Better Than a Spa Day
Video games have become an increasingly vital form of entertainment over the past year. Their immersive qualities make them more engaging than TV or books, tapping into the part of our brains that tends to mindlessly scroll social media instead of truly relaxing. With everyone stuck at home looking for diversion, video games have filled a real need.
And it's not just hardcore gamers logging 10-hour Halo sessions. Casual gaming is also on the rise, as people turn to games to blow off steam rather than building their identity around gaming. According to a recent Nielsen report, more than half of US residents played video games in 2020, driving industry revenues to almost $140 billion—a $20 billion increase over 2019.
While research into gaming's effects on kids is common, studies of adult gamers have been scarce until recently. A 2019 NIH study found video games may reduce depressive symptoms but spike adrenaline levels during violent games (though those normalize quickly after playing). More recently, a Royal Society Open Science study showed a small boost in emotional well-being for Animal Crossing and Plants vs. Zombies players.
As gaming goes mainstream, we're likely to see more research on the mental health links. The journal Games for Health focuses on such topics, with a recent paper[1] aggregating studies on casual games like Plants vs. Zombies and Bejeweled 2. Of 13 studies reviewed, 12 showed positive outcomes for players' stress, anxiety, and mental health. "All studies that examined mood and stress noted significant improvements compared to passive breaks, web surfing, or relaxation," the paper concludes.
"There are many benefits for adults playing games," says psychologist Megan Connell. "They can relax, engage with stories, connect with others, or just have fun."
Our 15 Favorite Stress-Reducing Games
To tap into the stress-relieving potential of gaming, check out these engrossing yet low-key game recommendations:
Stardew Valley
This farming simulation RPG is the perfect antidote to a stressful day.