MindLight: New Android Horror Survival Neurofeedback Game

A haunted house, shadowy creatures, and a mission to rescue your grandmother might sound like the premise for a typical spooky adventure game. However, MindLight, developed by PlayNice, transcends the usual gaming experience by integrating biofeedback to help children manage stress and anxiety. But what is biofeedback? It's a technique that uses mind-body therapy to enhance both physical and mental well-being, making your emotions an integral part of the gameplay. In MindLight, if you remain calm, the dark mansion illuminates, but if anxiety takes hold, the environment stays shadowy and eerie.

MindLight: More Than Just a Game

MindLight was co-developed by Dr. Isabela Granic, co-founder of PlayNice and the lead scientist behind numerous 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 storyline is straightforward: you play as a child exploring your grandmother's mansion, which is engulfed by shadows. Utilizing a headset, the game monitors your brainwaves or heart rate in real-time. The light you generate helps you navigate the mansion and fend off terrifying creatures.

Although primarily tested with children aged 8 to 12, PlayNice reports that even older children and parents have found enjoyment in MindLight. The game's ability to adapt to each player's 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 essential items: 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 download MindLight from the Google Play Store, Amazon store, Apple App Store, or directly from PlayNice’s official website.