Have you ever played open-world games and realized that you lost the sense of time? Did you also feel like you could forget the world around you for a bit to just enjoy what you were doing? Then you might have experienced what the Imperial College London and the University of Graz have discovered. Apparently, Open-world games would be more beneficial to us than we think! Keep on reading and discover everything about it!
Open World Games boost mental health
New research from Imperial College London and the University of Graz has revealed something all gamers want to hear. Apparently, open-world video games have “special powers” and are capable of reducing stress and improving mental well-being. Open-world games offer players the freedom to explore at their own pace, promoting cognitive escapism. This self-directed playstyle fosters relaxation, autonomy, and a deeper connection with the game world, ultimately enhancing emotional and psychological health.
Not every game will work
Even though it might feel like games like Call of Duty Warzone or GTA 5 have giant open-world capabilities, it is often a very intense and competitive gameplay against other people online. This is why it will only work with certain games like Skyrim, Red Dead Redemption 2, Black Myth: Wukong, and Ghost of Tsushima!
What are the benefits of these games?
The study found that the immersive environments in games like Skyrim, Red Dead Redemption 2, and Ghost of Tsushima allow players to disengage from real-world stressors. Also, when these players are completing quests or finding new loot during their exploration phase, they feel more competent and satisfied. These researchers also suggest that open-world games can be tools for anxiety and stress management. This way, they can offer an accessible and cheap way to improve mental health! Wat game will you be playing to improve your mental health?
