Embarking on a spooky adventure in a haunted house filled with shadow creatures while on a mission to rescue your grandmother might sound like a typical eerie game. However, MindLight, developed by PlayNice, transcends the conventional. This action-adventure game uniquely assists children in managing stress and anxiety through the use of biofeedback.
What is biofeedback? It's a mind-body therapy that can enhance both your physical and mental health. In MindLight, your emotions play a pivotal role in the gameplay experience. When you're calm, the dark mansion becomes illuminated, making your journey easier. Conversely, if you're feeling anxious, the mansion remains shadowy and daunting, reflecting your inner state.
MindLight is More Than Just a Game
MindLight was co-developed by Dr. Isabela Granic, co-founder of PlayNice and the lead scientist behind numerous randomized control trials involving over a thousand children. These trials demonstrated that children who engaged with MindLight saw their anxiety levels reduced by at least half.
The game's narrative is straightforward: you play as a child exploring your grandmother's mansion, which has been engulfed by shadows. By using a headset, the game monitors your brainwaves or heart rate in real-time. The light you generate helps you navigate the mansion and fend off terrifying creatures.
Although MindLight was primarily tested with children aged 8 to 12, PlayNice reports that it has been enjoyed by older kids and parents as well. The game's ability to adapt to each player's stress response in real-time ensures a personalized and dynamic experience for everyone.
Two Options to Get Started
To begin playing MindLight, you'll need two items: the Neurosky MindWave 2 EEG headset and a subscription to the game. PlayNice offers two subscription packages—one for a single child and another for families accommodating up to five players.
You can download MindLight from the Google Play Store, Amazon store, App Store, or directly from PlayNice's website.
