The SPARX 3D Fantasy Game Helps Players Cope with Depression
Courtney Scharf — May 22, 2012 — Social Good
References: sparx.org.nz & springwise
The SPARX 3D fantasy game is dramatically changing the way people understand the role of gaming in our lives. Video games are often criticized for their negative effect on user's lives, particularly in terms of social health. By adopting them as a medium for social good, however, University of Auckland professors have created something truly positive.
The New Zealand-based team responsible for the comprehensive game gave SPARX its name as an acronym. Standing for Smart, Positive, Active, Realistic and X-Factor, the name truly says it all. The game works by having players move through different provinces, each representing a key step to recovery. It's recommended that SPARX gamers go through one or two provinces per week. The game has been proven to reduce anxiety in players, and the socially conscious enterprise has been awarded for the game.
In line with the interests of younger victims of depression, the game is a promising creation and approach to managing the ever-existent mental health issue.
Contact Information
SPARX website
The New Zealand-based team responsible for the comprehensive game gave SPARX its name as an acronym. Standing for Smart, Positive, Active, Realistic and X-Factor, the name truly says it all. The game works by having players move through different provinces, each representing a key step to recovery. It's recommended that SPARX gamers go through one or two provinces per week. The game has been proven to reduce anxiety in players, and the socially conscious enterprise has been awarded for the game.
In line with the interests of younger victims of depression, the game is a promising creation and approach to managing the ever-existent mental health issue.
Contact Information
SPARX website
Trend Themes
1. Using Gaming for Mental Health - The SPARX 3D fantasy game is a disruptive innovation opportunity that explores the positive impact of video games on mental health.
2. Gamification of Therapy - SPARX is an example of gamification being used to create a therapy tool for managing depression and anxiety, opening up opportunities for game developers to create similar solutions.
3. Socially Conscious Gaming - The development of SPARX highlights the potential for video games to be designed with social good in mind, creating opportunities for socially conscious game development.
Industry Implications
1. Video Game Development - The success of SPARX shows that there is a market for video games designed specifically for mental health purposes, leading to opportunities for game developers in this niche.
2. Mental Health & Therapy - SPARX demonstrates the potential of gamification in helping individuals cope with mental health issues, suggesting opportunities for innovation in the mental health and therapy industry.
3. Tech for Social Good - The creation of SPARX as a game with positive impact showcases the potential for technology to be used for social good, prompting opportunities for tech companies to develop similar solutions.
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