New research published in JMIR serious game It suggests that some video games go beyond just having fun and may also help adults cope with loneliness and develop mental resilience. The study, titled “The Effects of Open World and Fun, Accessible Games on Loneliness and Stoicism in Adults: A Cross-Sectional Survey Study,” found that adults who played open-world adventure games such as The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild and accessible “feel-good” games such as Yoshi’s Crafted World reported lower levels of loneliness than non-players. These athletes also demonstrated higher levels of stoicism, a psychological measure of emotional resilience, self-control, and the ability to calmly meet challenges.
The study, published by JMIR Publications, surveyed 2,252 adults ages 21 and older about their gaming habits, emotions, and feelings of loneliness. The authors say the findings suggest that certain types of games can have positive emotional outcomes that go beyond mere escapism.
Researchers hypothesize that combining challenging exploration-based games with relaxing games may create what they call a balanced “digital diet” for mental well-being.
Contrary to the stereotype that games are just escapism, we’ve found that open-world, accessible, fun games can help foster a resilient, stoic mindset and reduce feelings of loneliness. ”
Andreas B. Eisingerich, Author
Loneliness continues to be recognized globally as a growing public health concern associated with poor mental and physical health. While this study does not claim that gaming can replace professional mental health care, it does suggest that carefully selected gaming experiences can be an affordable and scalable tool to support mental health.
This research goes beyond the stereotype of gaming as passive screen time. Instead, it emphasizes that video games can provide a space for players to practice persistence, problem solving, recovery from setbacks, and emotional regulation.
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Reference magazines:
Hou, C. Others. (2026). The effects of open worlds and fun and accessible games on loneliness and stoicism in adults: A cross-sectional survey study. JMIR serious game. DOI: 10.2196/89304. https://games.jmir.org/2026/1/e89304
