Why Playing Video Games Is GOOD For You

In recent years the rise of "personal tale" video game narratives has been on a steady rise. Thanks to platforms like Steam and the accessibility of developing tools on offer to even casual developers, it's never been easier to get your stories out there to the public.

And within this slew of new titles, there have been some truly outstanding commentaries on incredibly tough subjects. That Dragon Cancer dealt with the express pain of losing a young child to a horrible disease. Celeste offered insight into the struggles of dealing with depression. To The Moon details a fantastical journey through the acceptance of a life well lived and the arrival of death.

These aren't your run-of-the-mill, "shoot until you win" scenarios. These are thoughtful and often surgical explorations of subject matter that mainstream media often glosses over that simply put, we need to see more of. These experiences are not just a focal point of catharsism, but allow others to anchor their own experiences and use it as a talking point to begin some often very difficult conversations.

There's something truly valuable in feeling a true connection to a source material, and video games of this ilk allow many to begin dealing with their issues because it offers something vital in process. The knowledge that you are not alone.