Post-Game Depression
Ongoing coverage on Post-Game Depression.
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Post-game depression is a real thing that happens claims new medical study
A new medical study suggests that post-game depression is a real phenomenon, particularly affecting players of role-playing games. Researchers identified four aspects of this condition, including intrusive thoughts and a loss of interest in other media. The study's findings could potentially influence future game design.
New Scientific Study Concludes 'Post-Game Depression' Is Real, and It's RPGs That Have the Biggest Effect on Us
A new scientific study concludes that 'post-game depression,' the feeling of dismay after finishing a game, is a real phenomenon. The research indicates that Role-Playing Games have the most significant emotional impact on players, leading to this feeling.
Study Finds RPGs Trigger Strongest Post-Game Depression - GameHaunt
A study published in Current Psychology indicates that players of role-playing games experience the most intense post-game depression. Research involving 373 participants found that deep character bonds and long playtimes in story-heavy titles like Kingdom Hearts and Red Dead Redemption II contribute to stronger feelings of sadness and emptiness after completion. The study identified four key signs of this phenomenon, termed P-DGS, including persistent rumination, media anhedonia, difficulty saying goodbye to characters, and the urge to immediately replay the game.
Science Confirms RPG Players Hit Hardest by Post-Game Depression
A new scientific study confirms that players of role-playing games experience the most severe post-game depression upon completion. Researchers, including Dr. Janowicz, attribute this to the deep player agency, character bonds, and immersive worlds inherent in RPGs, which create a strong emotional investment that is difficult to leave behind. The findings validate the long-held community sentiment about the emotional impact of finishing epic RPGs like The Witcher 3, Persona, Mass Effect, Baldur's Gate 3, and Final Fantasy.
New study confirms what most gamers already knew: ‘Post-game depression’ is a real thing
A new study from SWPS University in Poland confirms the existence of 'post-game depression' (P-GD), a feeling of emptiness after completing immersive games. Psychologist Kamil Janowicz described P-GD as a type of grief, noting that role-playing games, where players form strong bonds with characters, are most likely to induce this feeling. The study suggests that game developers should consider the psychological impact of gameplay on player well-being.