Imagine stepping into a haunted house filled with shadow creatures, all while on a mission to rescue your grandmother. That’s the thrilling premise of MindLight, an action-adventure game developed by PlayNice that takes the spooky adventure genre to a new level. But MindLight is far more than just a game; it's a tool designed to help children manage stress and anxiety through the innovative use of biofeedback.

But what exactly is biofeedback? It's a mind-body therapy technique that can enhance both physical and mental well-being. In MindLight, your emotional state directly influences the gameplay. When you're calm, the dark mansion becomes illuminated, making it easier to navigate. However, if you're feeling anxious, the mansion remains shadowy and menacing, reflecting your inner state.

MindLight: More Than Just a Game

MindLight was co-developed by Dr. Isabela Granic, co-founder of PlayNice and a leading scientist who conducted several randomized control trials with over a thousand children. These trials revealed that kids who played MindLight experienced a significant reduction in anxiety, with levels dropping by at least half.

In the game, you play as a child exploring your grandmother’s mansion, which is engulfed by ominous shadows. By wearing a headset, the game monitors your brainwaves or heart rate in real time. The light you carry not only helps you navigate through the mansion but also serves as a tool to ward off the fearsome creatures lurking in the darkness.

Although primarily tested with children aged 8 to 12, PlayNice reports that older kids and even parents have found enjoyment in MindLight. The game's ability to adapt to each player's unique stress response in real-time ensures 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 packages—one tailored for a single child and another designed for families with up to five players.

You can easily download MindLight from the Google Play Store, Amazon store, App Store, or directly from PlayNice’s website.

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