Summary
Results of a new psychological study show thatSuper Mario Odysseycould be quite effective when it comes to treating certain depressive symptoms. Video games, in general, are often the subject of psychological studies looking for links between aggression or even intelligence. OneOxford study suggests playing games could be good for mental health, but using a particular game to treat a specific illness can also yield some interesting results, it turns out.
Despite being released late in the console’s launch year,Super Mario Odysseyremains one of the best andbest-selling Nintendo Switch games. Its mix of 3D and 2D platforming, along with the acclaimed capture mechanic, helpedSuper Mario Odysseybecome one of the generation’s most memorable titles. In addition to all the accolades and impressive sales feats, one study has found that time spent withSuper Mario Odysseycould prove to be beneficial for one’s mental health as well.
German researchers recently published a study in theFrontiers of Psychologyjournalthat tested to find if 3D video games could help reduce symptoms of Major Depressive Disorder (MDD). According to the study, MDD is often accompanied by symptoms of depressed mood, decreased motivation, and even issues with memory. While limited in terms of sample size, the study concluded that 3D video games have the potential to “increase subjective well-being,” increase motivation to continue with treatment, and improve visuo-spatial memory functions for those suffering from MDD.
The test divided 46 clinically depressed individuals into three groups: a video game group that trained by playingSuper Mario Odysseyon the Nintendo Switch, a treatment-as-usual group, and an active control group that used a cognitive exercise program. While mostly focusing on the cognitive symptoms of MDD rather than affective ones like depressed mood and decreased pleasure, the study found that the video game group specifically saw a “significant decrease in the proportion of participants who showed clinical levels of depressive symptoms,” as well as an increased motivation to continue with treatment. Still, the researchers warn that the results should be “interpreted with caution,” due to the “unblinded nature of this study.” Even with some mixed findings, the study concludes that video games could be a “cost-effective” means of training to potentially be used “in conjunction with regular treatment and therapy.”
There is still plenty of research left to be done regarding 3D gaming and MDD. The study’s authors state that increased sample sizes will be needed moving forward. Still, it’s encouraging that seemingly outside-the-box research like this is uncovering some helpful results. While not too common,Super Mario Odysseyisn’t the only game being studied by psychology professionals and enthusiasts. One recent study claimedSkyrimis actually the best game for mindfulness.
WithOdysseyhaving been released in 2017, many feelit’s time for a new 3DMariogame. The franchise’s latest 2D adventure launched this year inSuper Mario Bros. Wonder, but the promise of a Switch successor suggests a new 3D game could be coming soon.
Super Mario Odyssey
WHERE TO PLAY
Explore incredible places far from the Mushroom Kingdom as you join Mario and his new ally Cappy on a massive, globe-trotting 3D adventure. Use amazing new abilities—like the power to capture and control objects, animals, and enemies—to collect Power Moons so you can power up the Odyssey airship and save Princess Peach from Bowser’s wedding plans!Thanks to heroic, hat-shaped Cappy, Mario’s got new moves that’ll make you rethink his traditional run-and-jump gameplay—like cap jump, cap throw, and capture. Use captured cohorts such as enemies, objects, and animals to progress through the game and uncover loads of hidden collectibles. And if you feel like playing with a friend, just pass them a Joy-Con™ controller! Player 1 controls Mario while Player 2 controls Cappy. This sandbox-style 3D Mario adventure—the first since 1996’s beloved Super Mario 64™ and 2002’s Nintendo GameCube™ classic Super Mario Sunshine™—is packed with secrets and surprises, plus exciting new kingdoms to explore.
