Level Up Your Mood – Mood Repair Effects of Hedonic Versus Eudaimonic Video Games

Abstract: Current research emphasizes the therapeutic potential of hedonic video games (VGs), designed for fun and entertainment, which, for example, reduce anxiety primarily through psychological detachment. However, eudaimonic experiences of deeper emotional engagement and meaning may have even stronger therapeutic effects. In this lab experiment ( N = 95), we compared hedonic and eudaimonic VG experiences with a non-gaming control group (jigsaw puzzling) to reduce anxiety and promote relaxation. Anxiety was induced with an autobiographical recall task. Next, participants were randomly assigned to their respective activity. The anxiety levels, self-reported relaxation, and physiological relaxation (heart rate variability) were measured throughout the entire time. Both game types reduced anxiety and increased relaxation, but only the eudaimonic game led to prolonged physiological relaxation. In contrast, jigsaw puzzling did not reduce anxiety and was linked to greater stress responses. These findings highlight the therapeutic value of eudaimonic VGs, warranting further investigation through longitudinal studies.