Horror games are an intriguing blend of excitement and fear, offering players a unique experience that combines adventure with suspense. These games can present stunning visuals, often juxtaposing beauty with gruesome imagery, which enhances the overall experience.
In a recent Reddit post titled "Are horror games bad for the brain? Is the sensation we enjoy just a form of (unhealthy) stress?" from the R/TrueGaming community, the author dives into the complexities of the horror genre. He begins by recounting his experience with the "Silent Hills" playable trailer. This first-person game immerses players in an old, abandoned house filled with supernatural occurrences. The author shares his enjoyment of the game, emphasizing the adrenaline rush it provided: "I had an elevated heart rate, elevated body temperature, and I screamed at several exceptionally scary points." (paragraph 1)
However, he quickly pivots to a more serious reflection, questioning whether this intense experience is healthy from a "physical/psychological standpoint" (paragraph 2). He wonders if repeatedly playing horror games might lead to unhealthy mental damage over time. This introspection is crucial, as it addresses the broader implications of our gaming habits.
Next, the author discusses the effects of chronic stress on individuals, using PTSD as an example: "Divorces or the death of a spouse—can cause surprisingly rapid physical changes in people. Losing a job can do the same" (paragraph 3). These stressors can have lasting mental health consequences, suggesting that the cumulative impact of stress in one’s life can be significant. He argues that horror games might only offer a superficial sense of stress because our subconscious constantly reminds us that we are simply playing a video game.
He also shares a personal anecdote about a near-death experience, contrasting it with the thrills of horror gaming. He asserts that the real-life "full adrenaline dump, terror, and exhaustion" (paragraph 4), of a life-threatening situation is far more intense than what horror games can provide. This raises further questions about whether engaging with these games could subtly chip away at our mental health over time.
Personally, I resonate with the author’s perspective regarding our subconscious blocking some of the stress we experience while playing. Horror games can indeed be exhilarating; the rush of navigating unfamiliar, terrifying situations can lead to moments of sheer panic, where I find myself screaming. However, I’ve also noticed that after playing, a lingering sense of anxiety often follows. I tend to turn on all the lights in my room, as if trying to ward off any unseen threats. Since I don’t frequently play horror games, this residual fear suggests that players who indulge regularly may develop a worse and persistent sense of anxiety or a tolerance to the eerie feelings, learning to suppress their anxiety.
If you're intrigued, give a spooky game a try, but be cautious... you might find yourself questioning what’s lurking in the dark!
R/TrueGaming. (2014, August 21). Are horror games bad for the brain? Is the sensation we enjoy just a form of (unhealthy) stress? Reddit.com. October 21, 2024, https://www.reddit.com/r/truegaming/comments/2e6uy5/are_horror_games_bad_for_the_brain_is_the/
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