Same — though the games I enjoy may not be considered “easier”, I definitely stay away from unnecessary complexity. And yeah, there are definitely days that I can’t play the games I usually enjoy because I just need an easier time!
Thanks for sharing the study! Super interesting. I'd say that yes, every game can relax, but as I've started playing cosy games lately, I can tell the difference. For example playing Brawl Stars is quite intense, with sound effects and music being loud and impactful. On the contrary, if I play Monument Valley, I feel more chill, with the music being relaxing. So yes, the feeling of satisfaction / dopamine hit is achieved, but imo relaxation is different. It's like saying social media is as relaxing as ASMR - yes you dissociate, but it does not mean your brain relax.
Great write up!
This totally explains why I enjoy playing easier games as I’m getting older. The more stress I am, the more I crave an easier ride.
Same — though the games I enjoy may not be considered “easier”, I definitely stay away from unnecessary complexity. And yeah, there are definitely days that I can’t play the games I usually enjoy because I just need an easier time!
Thanks for sharing the study! Super interesting. I'd say that yes, every game can relax, but as I've started playing cosy games lately, I can tell the difference. For example playing Brawl Stars is quite intense, with sound effects and music being loud and impactful. On the contrary, if I play Monument Valley, I feel more chill, with the music being relaxing. So yes, the feeling of satisfaction / dopamine hit is achieved, but imo relaxation is different. It's like saying social media is as relaxing as ASMR - yes you dissociate, but it does not mean your brain relax.
Would love to see more data on this !
Thanks Julie!
And as more data comes out, I will definitely be posting and updating and revisiting the studies to see if they still hold true!