A new study has revealed that video games can have positive effects on happiness, life satisfaction, and skill development. Open-world games, in particular, are reported to boost emotional well-being, and this effect is even stronger when combined with nostalgic movies.

The Happiness That Comes from Playing The Legend of Zelda, Breath of the Wild

In a study published in the journal JMIR Serious Games, scientists examined the popular open-world game The Legend of Zelda, Breath of the Wild. In tests conducted with graduate students known to have high levels of anxiety and burnout, they found that playing the game helped foster a sense of purpose and meaning. Participants reported that the game made them feel calmer, more adventurous, and more resourceful.

One of the most interesting findings of the study concerned the interaction between different media types. A group of students in the study watched clips from nostalgic films like Studio Ghibli’s My Neighbor Totoro and Kiki’s Delivery Service while playing the game. Their overall happiness and sense of purpose in life were found to be higher than those in the group that played games alone. Researchers believe this suggests that the positive nostalgia evoked by movies, combined with the gaming experience, creates a stronger impact.

This study adds to the growing scientific evidence for the beneficial effects of video games. Previous research supporting these findings suggests that games can be used as a helpful tool in treating addiction, mitigating the effects of cognitive impairments, and improving mental health.

Coming amidst recent calls for and debates about increased regulation of the gaming industry, this research highlights the positive aspects of video games, as well as their potential risks. Contrary to long-held claims that “violent games cause violence,” such studies demonstrate how games can contribute to individual well-being.