Buzz
Contrary to popular belief, online games don't always bring negative outcomes as many assume.
Despite its significant growth in recent years, it's undeniable that online games still face numerous negative stereotypes. The peak of this bias was around 2009-2010 when various social issues and controversies were wrongly attributed to excessive online gaming. To the extent that WHO had to categorize 'gaming addiction' as a mental disorder. However, it's essential to acknowledge that online games not only provide entertainment but sometimes even exceed expectations. Classic examples are the cases mentioned below.
Animal Crossing
Once a sensational game in 2021, especially during the global pandemic outbreak, Animal Crossing with its unique gameplay quickly captivated gamers worldwide. Yet, few know that, according to a YouTuber's statistics, Animal Crossing contributed to curing depression in many individuals.
Boldly Wired, a YouTuber, shared that Animal Crossing literally saved his life. In a period of feeling depressed, demotivated, and directionless, Boldly found solace in the game, providing him with 'something to look forward to' through its real-time progression system.
Hellblade: Senua's Sacrifice
Understanding mental illnesses can be challenging unless you've truly experienced them. Hellblade: Senua's Sacrifice, a game simulating this condition, where the protagonist battles demons within her mind literally, is believed to provide significant aid to mental health patients.
During a conference on health related to online gaming, Dr. Paul Fletcher presented evidence of a patient with dissociative mental disorders who didn't know how to describe their symptoms until they played Hellblade: Senua's Sacrifice. Another example emphasized the game's importance when a parent admitted their child nearly gave up, only to change their mind after playing Hellblade: Senua's Sacrifice.
It Takes Two
Unrelated to the illnesses discussed above, It Takes Two also contributes to 'beautifying' life in a way few would expect.
Stephanie Minor, a journalist at The Gamer, explains that this game holds more significance for her than any other in her life. When she and her husband were going through marital struggles and even contemplating divorce, they decided to play It Takes Two to increase interaction and strengthen their bond.
The game's content involves building houses, and the gameplay requires both players to collaborate, communicate, and progress together. Not only that, Minor points out that the game made her laugh and improved her mood—something she hadn't felt for a long time. Although 'It Takes Two' wasn't the sole savior of their marriage, it undeniably became a crucial tool in the process.
