Summary
A study from Imperial College London and Kyushu Sangyo University found that playing games like Super Mario Bros. and Yoshi can help reduce feelings of burnout. The research suggests these games evoke childhood memories and joy, which boost happiness and lower the chance of burnout in students.
Key Facts
- Researchers from the UK and Japan studied the effects of playing Super Mario Bros. and related games on burnout.
- The study involved in-depth interviews with 41 university students and a survey of 336 students.
- Participants said the games made them feel happier and reminded them of childhood.
- Feeling more "childlike wonder" was linked to lower burnout risk and higher happiness levels.
- The study suggested that the games' design, like cheerful music and visuals, helps combat stress and burnout.
- Researchers note that video games alone don't solve the underlying causes of burnout.
- Excessive gaming can have negative effects and should be balanced.
