Playing more is approved by scientists.
Nintendo
Open worlds appeared in almost every franchise at some point, and while we're now slowly getting tired of the concept, such games are actually good for us, according to scientists.
In a paper called Open-World Games’ Affordance of Cognitive Escapism, Relaxation, and Mental Well-Being Among Postgraduate Students: Mixed Methods Study, researchers described the results of the 32 in-depth interviews with 609 players of popular open-world games they conducted using different methods: qualitative and survey studies and then a second qualitative study.
They collected and analyzed the interview data and compared the newly collected data against the existing insights.
Based on the results, the researchers concluded that "cognitive escapism through immersive game worlds allowed players to temporarily disconnect from real-world stressors, resulting in enhanced mood and psychological well-being."
"Players indicated that the nonlinear gameplay and freedom to explore interactive environments provided a sense of relaxation and mental rejuvenation."
So now you can tell your concerned friends and parents that games heal your soul, as has been scientifically proven several times before. And don't forget to mention they also improve your cognitive abilities, unlike using AI, which is said to have a negative effect on your brain.
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