"MindLight: New Android Neurofeedback Game with Horror Survival Theme"

A haunted house, shadow creatures, and a mission to rescue your grandmother might sound like a typical spooky adventure game. However, MindLight, developed by PlayNice, goes beyond the usual gaming experience. It's an action-adventure game designed to help kids manage stress and anxiety through the innovative use of biofeedback.

But what exactly is biofeedback? It's a form of mind-body therapy that can enhance both physical and mental well-being. In MindLight, your emotions directly influence the gameplay. When you're calm, the dark mansion illuminates, making navigation easier. Conversely, if you're feeling anxious, the mansion remains shadowy and daunting, reflecting your state of mind.

MindLight: More Than Just a Game

MindLight was co-developed by Dr. Isabela Granic, co-founder of PlayNice and the lead scientist behind several randomized control trials involving over a thousand children. These trials revealed that kids who played MindLight experienced at least a 50% reduction in their anxiety levels.

The game's premise is straightforward yet engaging. You play as a child navigating your grandmother's mansion, which is engulfed by shadows. Using a headset, the game monitors your brainwaves or heart rate in real-time, using this data to control the lighting within the game, which helps you fend off the scary creatures lurking in the shadows.

While primarily tested with children aged 8 to 12, PlayNice notes that even older kids and parents have found the game enjoyable. Since the game dynamically adapts to each player's unique stress responses, it offers a personalized experience for everyone.

Getting Started with MindLight

To begin playing MindLight, you'll need two essential items: the Neurosky MindWave 2 EEG headset and a subscription to the game. There are two subscription options available—one tailored for a single child and another for families, supporting up to five players.

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