As video games increasingly become a mainstream form of entertainment, the emotional shifts players experience after completing a game are drawing academic attention. New research indicates that after finishing a highly immersive game, players may develop feelings akin to loss, a phenomenon dubbed "post-game depression," characterized by emptiness, introspection, and even emotional exhaustion.
The study, a collaboration between SWPS University in Poland and The Stefan Batory Academy of Applied Sciences, was published in the journal "Current Psychology." The research team aimed to scientifically analyze an experience long recognized within the gaming community and establish the first "post-game depression scale" to measure the intensity of players' emotions after game completion.
Kamil Janowicz, a psychologist at SWPS University, stated, "Games are becoming increasingly sophisticated, and the experience goes far beyond mere entertainment. For many, completing a work they've invested significant time in isn't just satisfying; it can also be emotionally challenging." He noted that these emotions often emerge after the story concludes and character relationships end, creating a psychological void.
The research team recruited 373 players through social media, Reddit, and Discord for the survey, with most participants reporting daily gaming habits. Participants completed questionnaires assessing their psychological state and emotional responses post-game. Results showed that "post-game depression" could be categorized into four primary dimensions: repeatedly reflecting on the plot, difficulty accepting the ending, experiencing an urge to replay, and losing interest in other forms of entertainment.
Among these, "repeatedly recalling game content" had the most significant impact. The study indicated that some players remained immersed in the plot and characters even after finishing the game, sometimes experiencing intrusive thoughts, demonstrating how the gaming experience extended into their real lives. In contrast, a decline in interest in other entertainment forms was less pronounced.
The study also found that players with higher levels of post-game depression often reported lower overall well-being and stronger depressive tendencies. However, the research team emphasized that it is currently unclear whether games trigger these emotional changes or if pre-existing psychological states influence players' gaming experiences. The causal relationship requires further clarification.
Regarding game genres, role-playing games (RPGs) were identified as most likely to induce such emotions. Janowicz explained, "RPG players can often deeply engage with character development through their choices and build strong emotional connections, making them more prone to feelings of loss when the game ends." Additionally, individuals prone to repetitive rumination were more likely to experience intense post-game depression.
The study described this phenomenon as a unique experience of loss, similar to bidding farewell to a significant relationship or the end of a life stage. Janowicz commented, "It's an emotion close to losing an important connection, like saying goodbye to a chapter of your life."
As game narratives and immersive design continue to deepen, researchers suggest that developers may need to pay closer attention to players' psychological impact in the future, considering how to provide profound experiences while mitigating the emotional void that can follow.
via： Dexerto.