Games For Health News

Nintendo is Good for the Soul

Nintendo, hot on the success of "Brain Training for Adults", and other more adult oriented games like"Trauma Center: Under the Knife" and "Phoenix Wright: Ace Attorney". Nintendo knows when they have a good trend on their hands. The following quote, I found at "mbf tod@y," is part of a press release from Nintendo

Is there any science behind the gameplay? Relationship psychologist Susan Quilliam has reviewed the implications of the virtual puppy and found that it can not only help develop our attention spans and motor skills, but also improves our ability to solve problems and think creatively The "nintendogs" concept is easily grasped - you're responsible for a pet, and must offer regular food, exercise and entertainment if you want to keep it happy (however, the good news is that the pet never dies). Susan Quilliam found that the game teaches us how to bond and provides us with a sense of nurture and responsibility. But it can also have emotional effects, helping to raise self-esteem and develop strategic thinking. This is supported by research to coincide with the report, which reveals that nearly half of parents believe that owning a pet can teach the owner about a variety of emotions. The survey asked dog lovers what they think are the positive benefits of a virtual pet. Forty three (43) per cent said lower vet bills (!), 39 per cent said it was because they wouldn't have to go for a daily walk and 35 per cent thought it would be tidier. Is it finally time to replace your household pet with a virtual one?

check it out here: Virtual Pets are Good for You Posted by Peter Smith at August 16, 2005 09:14 PM | TrackBack