Summary
- Xbox Game Studios collaborates with Take This to address mental health stereotypes in gaming.
- Discover calming games on Xbox Game Pass.
- Artist Steve Wade presents a Starfield-inspired logo redesign to promote mental wellness.
Video Games as a Haven for Mental Wellness
For many, the holiday season can bring about increased stress, making self-care more important than ever. Video games have become a valuable refuge for individuals seeking relief from daily stressors. These digital worlds offer players a chance to escape into realms of creativity and challenges that provide both distraction and a sense of achievement. More than mere escape, gaming allows individuals to take control and find relaxation that might be elusive in their everyday lives.
The link between gaming and mental well-being is gaining recognition through research. A recent study by the University of Oxford, in partnership with PowerWash Simulator, revealed that 72% of participants experienced mood enhancements after gaming sessions. This study, which spanned 67,000 gaming experiences across 39 countries, highlighted a noticeable improvement in well-being within just 15 minutes of play. These findings underscore the potential of short gaming sessions to uplift mood, positioning video games as more than just entertainment but as a potential tool for mental health support.
As discussions around self-care expand across social media, workplaces, and educational institutions, video games are emerging as a unifying platform that brings people together from diverse backgrounds. When crafted with purpose, certain games can evoke positive emotions and even inspire therapeutic benefits. At Xbox, we recognize the transformative power of play, not only as developers but as players too.
We applaud the resilience of those who persevere through life’s challenges, finding joy and empowerment in their gaming experiences. Whether venturing into fantastical landscapes or taking a break with a simulation game, players can craft their own journeys while reshaping their emotional states.
At Xbox, we are motivated by the creativity and tenacity of the gaming community. Through the narratives we create and the experiences we offer, we remain dedicated to using play as a positive force, both inside and outside the gaming world.
Psychonauts 2: A Deep Dive into Mental Wellness through Gaming
In the world of Psychonauts, players use psychic abilities to delve into the minds of characters, each reflecting its owner’s unique thoughts and personality. For instance, a lively individual who loves dancing might have a mind filled with vibrant colors and music, while a more reserved person may have a mind that appears orderly and structured.
Although the game is lighthearted, it tackles mental health themes, sometimes in a fantastical manner, but often addressing characters’ internal struggles with a sense of realism. This approach has resonated with many players, who have found reflections of themselves in the game’s characters, helping them articulate feelings they might not have expressed before.
When developing the sequel, we were aware of the changing world and our evolving understanding of mental health. We established guiding principles, such as ensuring the main character, Raz, always seeks permission before entering minds, except in emergencies. He aids characters in confronting their inner demons and dealing with emotional baggage but does not "fix" them, as mental health challenges do not imply brokenness or villainy.
We view designing with mental health in mind as a form of accessibility. Our aim is to create an inclusive game that avoids making anyone the butt of a joke. We want everyone to enjoy an experience supported by complex, relatable characters who are part of a healing and empathetic story.
Never Fight Alone with Gears of War
The Coalition continues its support for the Never Fight Alone initiative by donating 1% of its net revenue to organizations focused on suicide prevention and combating loneliness. Through its partnership with Crisis Text Line, the program has already facilitated thousands of conversations for those in need. Fans can contribute by purchasing the 2024 artist-designed benefit tee and hoodie from the Xbox Gear Shop.
Senua’s Saga: Hellblade II and Ninja Theory’s Exploration of Psychosis
Ninja Theory’s Hellblade: Senua’s Sacrifice introduced a Celtic warrior experiencing psychosis, brought to life with input from Professor Paul Fletcher from the University of Cambridge and individuals with firsthand experiences of psychosis. In the sequel, Senua’s Saga: Hellblade II, Ninja Theory collaborated again with these experts to ensure an authentic representation of Senua’s experiences.
This partnership also led to Hellblade: A Journey of the Mind, a live conference in Cambridge, UK, featuring perspectives from those affected by psychosis and those studying and treating it. The conference is available on Ninja Theory’s YouTube channel and serves as a valuable resource for understanding psychosis.
Explore the next chapter of Senua’s story, available now with Game Pass.
Discover Xbox Games Promoting Mental Wellness on the Microsoft Store
The link between gaming and mental wellness is not just theoretical—it is supported by research and the experiences of countless players. The Microsoft Store offers a range of games that enhance mental well-being, from alleviating sadness and anxiety to promoting cognitive development. Xbox collaborated with Child’s Play Charity, an organization devoted to improving pediatric hospital patients’ lives through therapeutic games and technology, to identify games with a meaningful impact.
Highlighted from this list are notable titles like PowerWash Simulator, Sonic Mania, and Rime. Each game offers unique experiences that support players’ mental well-being, whether by fostering calm, sparking joy, or encouraging focus and exploration.
We spoke to Takashi Iizuka, Head of Sonic Team & VP of Product Development at Sega of America:
How does it feel to see Sonic Mania recognized by Child’s Play Charity as a game that helps children cope with sadness?
“I am glad that Sonic Mania is recognized as a source of positive experiences for children worldwide dealing with sadness, pain, or boredom,” shared Takashi Iizuka. “Sonic’s strength lies in offering memorable experiences with colorful graphics, unforgettable music, and great adventures for all ages.”
Did you foresee the game’s therapeutic impact during development?
“When developing Sonic Mania, our focus was on capturing joy from the early Sega Genesis years while creating something new. Bright, vivid colors, the thrill of speed, and exploring new worlds were key,” they explained. “We didn’t set out to create a therapeutic game, but reflecting on the joy these moments brought us, it’s no surprise players find comfort in them now.”
Looking ahead, players can explore the Encore DLC Pack, introducing Mighty the Armadillo and Ray the Flying Squirrel. The Sonic franchise continues to expand with Sonic Superstars and the anticipated Sonic the Hedgehog 3 movie.
Brad Flick, Design Director at Sonic Mania studio Evening Star, mentioned, “We’re working on several projects, but nothing to announce yet! We recently released Penny’s Big Breakaway on Xbox Series X|S and PC. If you loved Sonic Mania, you’ll enjoy our first foray into the 3D platformer genre. Thank you for supporting Evening Star!”
We also spoke to the team at Square Enix about PowerWash Simulator:
How does it feel to see PowerWash Simulator recognized for aiding children with cognitive impairment?
“It’s truly special. Knowing our game helps children meaningfully fuels our enthusiasm for continued improvement and expansion,” said the development team. “We aimed to create a relaxing, satisfying experience, and it’s wonderful to see those benefits extend to therapeutic contexts.”
Did you anticipate the game’s therapeutic impact during development?
“Our goal was to deliver a satisfying experience, but it was a pleasant surprise to see how therapeutic the gameplay became. Watching dirt disappear and creating pristine spaces gave players a focused, calming activity. By leaning into this gameplay, we inadvertently created a therapeutic space we’re proud of.”
While specific details couldn’t be shared, exciting updates for PowerWash Simulator are on the horizon, promising more “grimey therapy” for players to enjoy.
Explore these fantastic games now, and for more mental wellness-supporting games, see Child’s Play Charity’s full list.
Relaxing Games Curated by Microsoft Staff
Everyone needs a way to unwind, and many games are crafted to provide the opportunity to recharge. Throughout December and beyond, explore these calming Game Pass collections that offer a comforting escape from life’s challenges and cultivate positive emotions.
Check out highlights from the full Game Pass collection on Xbox and the full PC Game Pass collection on Windows:
Botany Manor (Available with Game Pass on Console, PC, and Cloud) – Enjoy a peaceful puzzle game where you play as Arabella Greene, a retired botanist living in a beautiful 19th-century English home. Discover the best environments for forgotten flora in your manor and gardens.
Jusant (Available with Game Pass on Console, PC, and Cloud) – Climb an immensely tall tower, befriend a water companion, explore civilization ruins, and restore nature in this meditative mountain-climbing game. Play at your own pace with a peaceful soundtrack and scenic atmosphere.
Palworld (Game Preview) (Available with Game Pass on Console, PC, and Cloud) – Live alongside mysterious creatures known as Pals. Collect cute Pals to farm, build, and battle for you in this popular multiplayer, open-world survival and crafting game.
Sea of Stars (Available with Game Pass on Console, PC, and Cloud) – Created around optimism and hope, this game aims to modernize the classic RPG with turn-based combat, storytelling, exploration, and interactions while offering nostalgia and simple fun.
Spiritfarer: Farewell Edition (Available with Game Pass on Console, PC, and Cloud) – Be a friendly ferry master to the dead in this cozy management game about grief. Farm, mine, fish, cook, and craft across mystical seas, with two-player cooperative play and a meditation mechanic.
Steve Wade’s Starfield-Inspired Xbox Redesign for Mental Wellness Awareness
To promote Mental Wellness Awareness, Xbox commissioned artist Steve Wade to redesign the Xbox logo. Steve, who struggled with mental health growing up, found gaming and art as ways to manage stress and express himself. According to Steve, “Gaming allowed me to escape my mind for a few hours a day, feeling free from stress, anxiety, and worry.”
Steve reimagined the Xbox logo in a planetary landscape with a Starfield-inspired starship and crystalline structures. The design drew inspiration from The Frontier, the first ship in Starfield, as the game allows him to find calm. “The artwork reflects how gaming can improve mental health,” Steve says. “Gaming is like entering a new world of possibilities where you can be yourself without worrying about others’ opinions.”
Explore more of Steve’s work at his website.
Xbox and Take This: Combating Mental Health Stereotypes
To challenge mental health stereotypes in gaming, Xbox partners with Take This, industry experts advocating for relatable and inclusive mental health representation in games. They are developing a custom workshop for Xbox Game Studios to raise awareness of mental health tropes, empowering developers to create inclusive and representative games for those experiencing mental illness.
Gaming with Impact
Rewards members in the United States can earn and donate points to organizations supporting mental wellness with Xbox. The following organizations will be available on the Rewards hub:
- Crisis Text Line – Offers free, 24/7, confidential text-based mental health support in English and Spanish, connecting people in need with trained volunteers. Text PAUSE to 741741 for a live volunteer Crisis Counselor or use the webchat. (US)
- Take This – A mental health advocacy organization focusing on the gaming industry and community. They provide resources, training, and support to help the gaming community improve mental well-being and resilience. (US)
- Lifeline – A national charity providing Australians experiencing emotional distress with 24-hour crisis support and suicide prevention services. They aim to empower Australians to be suicide-safe through connection, compassion, and hope. (AUS)
Xbox players can earn Rewards points through various activities, such as playing games, completing Game Pass Quests, and purchasing eligible items at the Microsoft Store (exclusions apply). Start earning for impact today and redeem points for rewards. Donate points on the Rewards hub or on the Rewards redeem page.
Wallpapers and Dynamic Backgrounds
The Mental Wellness Awareness Xbox design is available as an Xbox wallpaper and dynamic background on console. Follow these steps to apply the dynamic background:
- Press the Xbox button on your controller to open the guide.
- Select Profile & system > Settings > General > Personalization > My background > Dynamic backgrounds.
Choose between Games, Xbox, or Abstract dynamic backgrounds and select the desired background art with the A button.
For more Information, Refer to this article.
