Video games have progressed from a simple form of entertainment to powerful interactive experiences capable of addressing complex and meaningful issues. Mental health is one such topic that has been increasingly explored in gaming over the years. Such games, while offering great narrative experience, also help raise awareness, combat stigma, and foster empathy.
The games listed below have pushed the boundaries of what video games can achieve in terms of social impact. Play any of these games to be reminded that you are not alone in your struggles.
Sea of Solitude
Sea of Solitude is an introspective adventure game that portrays loneliness and emotional turmoil. Players control Kay, a young woman navigating a submerged city while confronting her inner demons. The game’s dark and atmospheric setting serves as a metaphor for mental health struggles, and it makes you realize the power of self-acceptance.
To the Moon
In this emotionally packed adventure game, topics of regret, memory, and the search of happiness are all explored. Players travel with two doctors as they carry out a dying man’s last desire by navigating his memories. The game’s moving story explores important issues on what fulfillment is and how deeply our decisions affect our lives.
The Beginner’s Guide
Beginner’s Guide is a psychological story-driven game that explores the mind of a game developer. Through several made-up games, the player investigates the challenges and problems of the developer’s loneliness, hopelessness, and the creative process of developing games. This title depicts the character’s past experiences and interactions with others, leading to empathy and introspection.
Beyond: Two Soul
Through the story of Jodie Holmes, a young woman tied to a supernatural being named Aiden, Beyond: Two Souls addresses issues of trauma and mental connection. The game delves at the psychological effects of trauma as well as the complex nature of identity. Because of its branching narrative, players can mold Jodie’s story but also be responsible for the consequences of her actions.
The Last of Us Part II
An action-adventure video game that has received great praise, The Last of Us Part II looks into the effects of trauma and revenge and the toll it has on mental health. Ellie’s struggle with guilt, sadness, and her individual sense of morality is shared by the players as they travel with her. Players are asked to think about the cycle of violence and how it affects mental health as part of the game’s narrative.
Brothers: A Tale of Two Sons
This is a unique cooperative adventure game that explores sadness and loss. Players control two brothers on a quest to cure their dying father. The game’s mechanics require simultaneous control of both characters, emphasizing the bond between siblings and the power of shared experiences in times of adversity.
Hellblade: Senua’s Sacrifice
Hellblade: Senua’s Sacrifice is a masterpiece that explores psychosis and the struggles faced by the protagonist, Senua. Developed in collaboration with neuroscientists and individuals with lived experience, the game artfully captures the internal battles of psychosis. Its use of binaural audio and visual distortions effectively immerses players in Senua’s disorienting world.
Senua’s Saga: Hellblade II
The highly anticipated sequel to Hellblade: Senua’s Sacrifice, this game intends to continue the examination of mental health concerns. The game dives deeper into its Senua’s psyche, further immersing players in the experience of living with psychosis.
Night in the Woods
Mae, a college dropout, returns to her hometown and suffers with existential dread, despair, and the trials of young adulthood in Night in the Woods. The game explores mental health concerns with sensitivity and honesty, thanks to its attractive art style and engaging characters.
Celestia
Celestia, an indie puzzle-platformer, focuses on anxiety and the fear of failure. Players control Celeste, a young girl, as she battles her own anxieties manifested as dark creatures. By solving puzzles and overcoming challenges, players learn to confront and manage anxiety, promoting resilience and self-empowerment.
Depression Quest
An interactive fiction game, this title provides players with insight into the experience of depression. Through a text-based narrative, players navigate the daily life of a person with depression, making choices influenced by their mental state. The game aims to foster empathy and understanding surrounding this often-misunderstood condition.
The Legend of Zelda: Majora’s Mask
Often regarded as one of the darkest entries in the Zelda franchise, Majora’s Mask deals with grief, anxiety, and existentialism themes. The game’s time-loop mechanic creates a sense of impending doom, mirroring the characters’ emotional struggles in the game’s world. Majora’s Mask encourages players to confront and overcome their fears.
Life is Strange
Life is Strange is an episodic adventure game that deals with issues such as depression, bullying, and the consequences of one’s actions. Max Caulfield, the protagonist, realizes she has the capacity to rewind time. The game then invites players to consider the consequences of their actions and empathize with others through its realistic characters and branching plot.
Gris
Gris is a visually stunning 2D platformer that deals with grief and trauma. As players guide the titular character through a world drained of color, they witness her emotional healing and growth. With its breathtaking art style and evocative music, Gris provides a metaphorical exploration of the stages of grief.
Celeste
Celeste, a platformer with a touching narrative, tackles anxiety and depression. The game follows the journey of Madeline, a young woman climbing a treacherous mountain while facing her inner darkness. Celeste’s challenging gameplay serves as an allegory for overcoming obstacles, while its story emphasizes self-acceptance and mental well-being.
