When you get home from a busy day of work, or even when you have a free day, like a weekend, what’s something that you immediately want to do? For most, the goal is to unwind, feel relaxed, and just try to get their mind off of all the burdens that they’re experiencing. One common thing that a lot of people gravitate towards are video games, PC, console, mobile games, you name it. So imagine this: You want to relax, and you’re playing a game you enjoy, and while playing, it becomes more intense.

Maybe the other players are being a nuisance, maybe it’s just becoming harder by the second, the adrenaline begins to rush, you begin to shake, the relaxing feeling is over, and you’re starting to grow more and more frustrated to the verge of rage quitting. Does this sound familiar in the slightest? Well, there’s no doubt about it: Games can be pretty intensive, and that’s one of the things that makes them so special, honestly.  But at the same time, intensive games should probably be played in moderation.

If you want to feel relaxed, is a stressful game that lets your anger out really going to help that? Honestly, it’s not, which is why it’s so important to focus on more relaxing games. Whether these relaxing games are classic word games, a simulator, or even little puzzles, it’s all up to you what actually makes you truly feel relaxed. So, here are the major benefits you can actually count on when it comes to playing video games!
 

What are the Negatives of Stressful Video Games?

There isn’t anything inherently wrong with stress-inducing video games. Honestly, having challenging video games can actually be a good thing since these can help keep your mind sharp. But the problem mainly lies when you want to relax, or you just need to relax for the sake of your mental health, but a game is too stressful.

In a way, it’s similar to books, movies, or even shows; if they’re intense like a thriller, suspenseful, or horror, then you’re not going to necessarily relax, but instead, there’s going to be adrenaline rushes. There are just times when your body just needs to relax and when your mind just needs to relax without getting that heartbeat up. So, these are some negatives that you can expect.

The Stress Levels Themselves

Sometimes, a stressful video game can be good; it’s just temporary stress, but if it’s happening too often, that’s not good for your mental health or your physical health. The constant pressure to perform at a high level, the fear of failure, and the intensity of in-game situations contribute to a heightened state of arousal that can be emotionally taxing. It’s really up to you to figure out what games are taxing, but they’re usually competitive ones or even survival games.

Potential Impact on Mental Health

In general, this is just a risk of doing anything at all that’s stressful for prolonged periods of time. When you have free time to relax, the whole point is to do things that help your mental health, but stress-inducing video games can potentially impact your mental health if you’re just playing them way too much or taking them too seriously.

Possible Strain on Relationships

 The competitive nature of many stress-inducing games can lead to strained relationships, both online and offline. Just think about certain multiplayer games and their communities (like Overwatch); they’re toxic, and they foster hostility. Where is the fun in having to deal with that? Additionally, the time commitment required for intense gaming sessions may strain relationships with family and friends, leading to social isolation.

Physical Health

Needless to say, physical health and mental health are connected; when you’re playing a stressful game, you might become sweaty and filled with adrenaline, your heartbeat is super quick, and things like that. Think of it this way: you might have to deal with poor posture, eye strain, muscle strain, and disrupted sleep patterns since these are all common concerns associated with intense gaming.

Addiction

Can video games be addictive? To a degree, they can be yes, which is why it’s better to only play them in moderation. The pursuit of victory, recognition, or in-game rewards can create a cycle of compulsive gaming behavior. This addiction can interfere with daily responsibilities and academic or even professional commitments, which all contribute to an unhealthy lifestyle.

There’s the Financial Pressure

So, this isn’t something that every game has, thankfully. You can expect a relaxing game like Patience to not have this what so ever. Nowadays, you’re mostly going to find this tactic with mobile games since there's been such nasty backlash from gamers with that whole “pay to win” thing that was on a lot of console games. But with that said, some parts of a game just can’t really be beaten unless you spend actual money.

Perks of Games That Promote Relaxation

Just as not all games are stress-inducing, some are actually meant to be relaxing; they’re made to be wholesome, calming, and even just put you in a good mood. As you might know, relaxation and activities that help you relax are good for you; they’re good for you physically and mentally.

Sure, intense games, such as shooters, can be fun, and the challenge aspect of them can be fun, too. But sometimes, it’s nice to just take a step back and play games that are meant to keep you calm, not build you up. So, here are some of the perks of playing relaxing games.

Your Stressful Day Just Melts Away

Games that focus on serene environments, soothing music, and low-stakes gameplay provide a welcome escape from the pressures of everyday life. You really do get this sense of tranquility; think of games like Animal Crossing, for example; it’s all about doing relaxing activities like fishing, planting flowers, having wholesome conversations with villagers, and decorating your home. Plus, the music is soft, too; examples like that help keep a person happy and relaxed.

There’s a Bit of Mindfulness

Video games aren’t really known for this, but to a degree, some video games really do put mindfulness into play. Titles that involve simple mechanics, beautiful landscapes, and calming soundscapes provide an opportunity for players to immerse themselves in the present moment.  It’s almost like a mini meditative session if you think about it.

Better Sleep Quality

If you’ve had a hard day and you’re playing an intense game, you’re just not going to feel relaxed. You just can’t unwind both physically and mentally. Playing a game, any game that promotes calmness and tranquility will get you into that state of mind, so it’s going to be easier to fall asleep afterward.

Better Emotional Wellbeing

Has there ever been a wholesome video game that put you in a good mood? It’s just so calming that you can’t help but feel happy. There’s a reason for that! Well, relaxing video games often evoke positive emotions and a sense of achievement without the intensity or frustration associated with competitive gaming. These games can serve as emotional outlets, offering a safe space for self-expression and creativity.

A Positive Escape

One of the biggest reasons why people play so many video games is for the fact that this is meant to feel like an escape. You’re supposed to feel like you’re able to escape the stressors of daily life. Getting the chance to go at your own pace and do what you want in a game is really going to allow you that escapism that you’re hoping for.

Positive Community

It was already touched upon that some games, particularly stress-inducing ones, seem to breed a toxic community and just bad players overall. For the most part (but not always), you’re usually going to find a far more positive community that’s built up on support and positivity.

Keeps Your Brain Sharp

Alright, in general, video games keep your mind sharp, but ones where you can stay in a good mood and relax are going to be far better. Puzzle-solving, creative thinking, and strategic decision-making are often integral parts of these games, contributing to mental stimulation in a low-pressure environment.

Soothes the Mood

If you’re tired or having a bad day, you’re going to want to try to do what you can to make yourself feel better ASAP, and relaxing games are exactly what you’re going to need in order to make that happen. They’re soothing; therefore, they’re going to help calm down your mood.

Is It Time to Consider What You Play?

Honestly, it might be best to take a good, hard look at the games you play on a regular basis. Relaxing games don’t need to be boring; you don’t always have to shout or be on the verge of rage quitting when it comes to games. Sometimes, it’s better not to have to be at the edge of your seat with full concentration. Give yourself a chance to truly unwind, to actually destress, and embrace the little things that games have, especially relaxing games. Games should be an escape; they should help you feel better about your day, not make it worse. So, go ahead and start embracing more relaxing games!