"MindLight: New Android Neurofeedback Game with Horror Survival Theme"

If you're into spooky adventure games, you might think a haunted house, shadow creatures, and a mission to rescue your grandmother sounds like a typical eerie journey. But MindLight, developed by PlayNice, breaks the mold. It's not just an action-adventure game; it's a tool designed to help kids manage stress and anxiety through biofeedback.

What is biofeedback, you ask? It's a mind-body therapy that can enhance both physical and mental health. In MindLight, your emotions play a crucial role in the gameplay. If you stay calm, the dark mansion brightens up. But if you're anxious, it remains shadowy and creepy, adding a layer of real-time interaction that's both engaging and therapeutic.

MindLight is More Than Just a Game

Co-developed by Dr. Isabela Granic, a co-founder of PlayNice and a leading scientist, MindLight has been rigorously tested. Through randomized control trials involving over a thousand children, it was found that those who played the game saw their anxiety levels drop by at least half. The game's storyline is straightforward: you play as a child exploring your grandmother's mansion, which is engulfed in shadows. Equipped with 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 scary creatures.

While primarily tested on kids aged 8 to 12, PlayNice reports that even older children and parents have found the game enjoyable. Since MindLight adapts to each player's stress response in real-time, it remains a personalized and dynamic experience for everyone.

Getting Started with MindLight

To dive into MindLight, you'll need two things: a Neurosky MindWave 2 EEG headset and a subscription to the game. There are two subscription options available—one for a single child and another for families, supporting up to five players.

You can find MindLight on the Google Play Store, Amazon store, Apple App Store, and directly on PlayNice's website. It's an innovative blend of gaming and mental health support that's accessible across multiple platforms.