Discussion of digital gaming's impact on players' well-being during the COVID-19 lockdown

TL;DR

This paper reviews how digital gaming can support mental and physical health during COVID-19 lockdowns, highlighting positive social interactions and adaptive game design as key factors.

Contribution

It provides a framework for understanding and enhancing well-being through digital gaming during pandemic-induced restrictions.

Findings

Interaction in virtual communities benefits mental health.

Game redesigns promote physical activity at home.

Framework guides future research on gaming and well-being.

Abstract

This research discusses how to utilise digital gaming to support the well-being of its users and sustain their physical and mental health during the COVID-19 lockdown in which people's activities are limited. The published academic literature that is written in English and available for access on online databases was reviewed to develop key take-aways and a framework for discussing how to enhance people's well-being in the COVID-19 lockdown. Interaction with other players in virtual communities has been found to have a positive influence on the mental health of those suffering from a lack of societal connection. A framework for further research has also been developed that focuses on the critical situation of the COVID-19 lockdown,as this is an urgent topic with a huge impact on our health.Some gaming service providers have been proactive in redesigning game programming to be suitable for the lockdown situation, and this enables players to enjoy physical activities even at home.