7 Video Games That Promote Mental Well-being

One thing they probably won't tell you in school is that there can actually be a lot of calming benefits when you play video games in moderation. Today I will be covering, seven video games that offer more than just entertainment—they have the potential to positively impact your mental well-being.* These games provide relaxation, cognitive stimulation, and stress relief, offering a refuge in the digital world for those seeking moments of calm and self-care.

MODMIND's Video Game Recommendations

1. Animal Crossing: New Horizons

This has been a personal favorite game of mine. I have played this game since I was a child and it has not lost a bit of it's charm to me. Animal Crossing: New Horizons, is the newest release from Nintendo. It is a life simulation game that lets you create and manage your own virtual island. With its charming aesthetics and delightful (and witty) characters, it's a perfect escape from the pressures of everyday life. Engage in activities like fishing, gardening, and designing your dream home, fostering a sense of creativity, accomplishment, and community.

2. Stardew Valley

If I am not playing Animal Crossing, there is a high chance you will find me playing Stardew Valley. This game is all about escaping the corporate world and joining the "peaceful" community of Stardew Valley. In this game, you will cultivate your own farm, build relationships with towns folk, and uncover the mysteries and secrets that lie within the Valley. Stardew Valley encourages you to set your own pace, providing a relaxing and immersive experience that can alleviate stress and anxiety.

3. Minecraft

Unleash your creativity and immerse yourself in the endless possibilities of Minecraft. This sandbox game allows you to shape and explore virtual worlds, constructing magnificent structures and embarking on exciting adventures. With its open-ended nature, relaxing soundtrack, and peaceful modes available, Minecraft can provide a sense of control, escapism, and therapeutic expression.

5. Celeste

This game takes you on a journey of self-discovery and resilience. Celeste is a challenging platformer game with an inspiring message. As you guide the protagonist through treacherous landscapes, you'll confront your fears, celebrate small victories, and ultimately learn the power of self-acceptance.

6. Valorant

I know, this is defiantly not a "doctor-recommended" or even a "gamer recommended" way to calm down, but sometimes slow-paced and dialog heavy games can cause you to get lost in your own thoughts. A fast-paced fps can be a healthy way to calm down and pinpoint your attention to one task. The game play is strategic, forcing the player to put full attention into the game. When your thoughts start to drift off of the game, you usually are swiftly eliminated; making it a great game for when you have a pesky intrusive thought finding it's way into your mind! While toxic players are always a risk you can just mute the voice chat! Although it is worth mentioning, in personal experience I find this community does a really good job welcoming and being patient with new players and making connections with teammates.

7. Tetris

Engage your mind and sharpen your focus with the timeless classic, Tetris. This iconic puzzle game challenges you to arrange falling blocks, promoting mental agility, problem-solving, and spatial awareness. Tetris can serve as a calming and absorbing experience. Some studies haven even shown Tetris to reduce formation of PTSD symptoms after a traumatic event.

Conclusion:

Video games have the power to go beyond entertainment, offering valuable benefits for mental health. Whether you seek relaxation, cognitive stimulation, or emotional release, these seven games provide a gateway to virtual worlds that can aid in taking control of your well-being. Remember to find the games that resonate with you personally and balance your gaming habits with other aspects of life to maintain overall well-being.

*Disclaimer: As with any form of entertainment or recreation, moderation and self-awareness are important. If you find that gaming is negatively impacting your mental health or overall well-being, it's crucial to seek support and maintain a healthy balance in your life.