JMIR Publications

ABSTRACT

Background:

Using commercial off-the-shelves video games rather than custom-made computer games could have several advantages for treating stress and anxiety, thanks to their low-cost, advanced graphics, and the possibility to reach millions of individuals worldwide. However, it is important to emphasize not all commercial video games are equal, and their effects strongly depend on specific characteristics of the game itself, such as its genre.

Objective:

This systematic review aimed to describe the literature on the use of commercial off-the-shelves video games for diminishing stress and anxiety.

Methods:

A systematic search of the literature was performed following the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analysis guidelines. Databases used in the search were PsycINFO, Web of Science, and Medline. The search string was: [(“Video Game*” OR "Computer Game*")] AND [(“stress”) OR ("anxiety") OR ("relaxation”)] AND ["study" OR ("trial") OR ("treatment")].

Results:

N=25 studies met inclusion criteria during the period 2006 – 2021. Findings show the benefit of commercial off-the-shelves video games for reducing stress in children, adults, and older adults. The majority of the retrieved studies recruited young adults. Fewer studies have involved children, middle-aged adults, and older adults. In addition to exergames and casual video games, other genres of commercial off-the-shelves games were useful for reducing stress and anxiety.

Conclusions:

Efficacy in reducing stress level and anxiety has been demonstrated not only for exergames and casual video games but also for other genres, such as action games, action-adventure games, and augmented reality games. Various gaming platforms, including consoles, PCs, smartphones, mobile consoles, and virtual reality systems, have been used with positive results. Finally, even single and short sessions of play resulted in being effective in reducing stress and anxiety.