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8 Video Games That Help You Practice Mindfulness(And Why It's Not as Surprising as You Think)
MIndful Petals
October 08, 2024
As someone who’s been gaming since I was 10, I’ve always appreciated the escape my PlayStation 4 and Nintendo Switch offer me. Sure, video games are fun, but they’ve also become a way for me to unwind and focus — like a kind of mindful relaxation. It might sound a little odd to connect video games with mindfulness, especially since games are often thought of as fast-paced and overstimulating. But, the truth is, some games have helped me stay present and calm in ways I hadn’t expected.
Photo by Glenn Carstens-Peters on Unsplash
Rethinking the Stigma of Gaming
For a long time, gaming has had a bad rap. The stereotype of gamers as unsociable or even unhealthy has stuck around for years, making it harder for people — especially adults — to admit their love for gaming. But things are changing. Today, gaming is viewed more positively, not just as entertainment, but also as a tool for learning, creativity, and even personal growth. Unlike watching TV or reading a book, games require active participation, pulling you into the moment and offering experiences that can be surprisingly reflective and calming.
How Video Games Can Support Mindfulness
If you’re wondering how a video game could ever promote mindfulness, you’re not alone. When we think of mindfulness, we usually imagine quiet meditation or deep breathing exercises, not sitting in front of a screen. But mindfulness is all about being fully engaged in the present moment, and that’s something many video games can help foster.
A key psychological concept here is the “flow state.” This happens when you’re so deeply absorbed in an activity that you lose track of time. According to psychologist Mihaly Csikszentmihalyi, flow is a form of optimal experience, where you’re completely focused on what you’re doing. In a way, it mirrors mindfulness. Some video games are great at drawing you into this state, where you can focus, stay in the moment, and even come out of it feeling refreshed and mentally clear.
Mindful Games: Finding Calm in the Digital World
Not all games are fast-paced or action-packed. Many games are designed with slower pacing, deep exploration, or meditative moments built right in. These games give you the chance to pause, breathe, and reflect — offering an experience that feels mindful and calming. Below are eight video games that I’ve found to be particularly good at promoting mindfulness.
1. The Elder Scrolls V: Skyrim
Skyrim is famous for its epic battles, but there’s a peaceful side to it too. Whether you’re wandering through forests or mining for resources, there are plenty of moments to slow down and take in your surroundings. A standout scene is the quiet walk up a mountain, where you meet characters who are meditating. It’s a perfect reminder to pause and be present.
2. The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt
In The Witcher 3, meditation isn’t just an option — it’s part of the gameplay. Geralt, the main character, meditates to heal and regain strength. The visual that accompanies this mechanic invites a calm, reflective state, mirroring how mindfulness can heal and recharge us in real life.
3. Abzu / Journey
Both Abzu and Journey are visually stunning and offer quiet, immersive gameplay. Journey is often praised for its emotional depth, while Abzu takes players on a peaceful underwater exploration. These games create a space where you can unwind and just enjoy the experience, free of stress or urgency.
4. Minecraft
It might look like a game for kids, but Minecraft’s open-world environment is perfect for practicing mindfulness. As you gather resources or build structures, the simplicity of the game forces you to be present and aware of your surroundings, offering a peaceful, focused experience.
5. Night in the Woods
This indie game offers a quieter, more introspective experience. The story deals with mental health and personal struggles, inviting players to connect deeply with the characters. It’s a game that encourages reflection and mindfulness as you move through its world.
6. flOw / Flower
Both games were made by the same creators as Journey, and they offer similarly relaxing experiences. In flOw, you guide an evolving organism through a simple, minimalist world, while Flower lets you control a petal drifting on the wind. These games are all about flow and calm, offering a meditative escape.
7. No Man’s Sky
After a rough start, No Man’s Sky has grown into a deeply meditative exploration game. You can take your time exploring different planets, enjoying the peaceful, slow-paced gameplay that encourages you to stop and appreciate the beauty around you.
8. Pause (Mobile App)
While not a traditional game, Pause is a mobile app designed specifically for mindfulness. You simply move a small, swirling ball with your finger, focusing your attention and calming your mind. It’s perfect for a quick mindful break in your day.
Wrapping It Up
Video games might not be the first thing that comes to mind when you think about mindfulness, but they can offer powerful moments of calm, reflection, and focus. Whether you’re exploring the world of Skyrim or meditating with Geralt in The Witcher 3, games can help you stay present, relax, and find a little bit of peace in the middle of your day. So, next time you’re looking for a way to unwind, consider picking up a game — your mind might thank you for it.
Do you have any other games that help you practice mindfulness? I’d love to hear your recommendations in the comments!