MindLight: New Android Neurofeedback Game with Horror Survival Theme

MindLight isn't your typical spooky adventure game. Developed by PlayNice, this action-adventure game takes you on a thrilling journey through a haunted house filled with shadow creatures, all while on a mission to rescue your grandmother. But what sets MindLight apart is its innovative use of biofeedback to help kids manage stress and anxiety.

Biofeedback is a mind-body therapy designed to improve both physical and mental health. In MindLight, your emotions directly influence the gameplay. When you're calm, the dark mansion lights up, making your path clearer and safer. But if you're feeling anxious, the mansion remains shadowy and eerie, challenging you to regain your composure.

MindLight: More Than Just a Game

Co-developed by Dr. Isabela Granic, co-founder of PlayNice, MindLight has been rigorously tested through several randomized control trials involving over a thousand children. These trials demonstrated that kids who played MindLight experienced a significant reduction in anxiety, by at least half. The game's concept is straightforward: you play as a child exploring your grandmother’s mansion, which is engulfed by shadows. Equipped with a headset, the game monitors your brainwaves or heart rate in real-time. The brighter the light, the easier it is to navigate the mansion and fend off terrifying creatures.

Although primarily tested with children aged 8 to 12, PlayNice reports that older kids and parents have also found the game engaging. MindLight adapts to each player's stress response in real-time, ensuring a personalized and dynamic experience for everyone.

Getting Started with MindLight

To dive into MindLight, you'll need two key components: the Neurosky MindWave 2 EEG headset and a subscription to the game. PlayNice offers two subscription options: one tailored for a single child and another for families, accommodating up to five players.

You can easily purchase MindLight from various platforms including the Google Play Store, Amazon store, App Store, and directly from PlayNice's website.