Transforming Eco-Anxiety into Empowerment: The Power of Games

Volha Kapitonava, Managing Director of Positive Impact Games, discusses how video games can revolutionize attitudes towards climate change. In recent years, the industry has seen a surge in games focusing on climate and biodiversity, such as Terra Nil, Alba: A Wildlife Adventure, and Beyond Blue. This trend is driven by the growing demand from players for stories that prioritize the well-being of the planet. The reason these games resonate with audiences is largely due to their timing, as eco-anxiety has become a mainstream emotional reality. A global study revealed that nearly half of young people believe climate change affects their daily lives, and over half think humanity is doomed if no action is taken. Traditional climate communication often exacerbates the problem by focusing on catastrophe, leading to feelings of powerlessness and paralysis. However, games offer a unique solution by providing experiences where actions have visible consequences, and improvement is still possible. By allowing players to make meaningful decisions and witness the impact of their choices, games can foster a sense of capability and curiosity. A recent scientific report found that players who engage with environmental games are more likely to report higher self-efficacy and participate in real-world pro-environmental behaviors. The key to this empowerment is joy, particularly the structured and rewarding joy found in games that offer players a safe space to confront their fears and anxieties. Wholesome games, often misconstrued as merely gentle or soft, are actually designed around the philosophy of hope, emphasizing cooperation, empathy, and regeneration. These games have the power to convert anxiety into agency, encouraging players to take action in the real world. While games cannot solve the climate crisis alone, they can shape perception, emotion, and motivation, ultimately contributing to a cultural shift towards hope and regeneration. By normalizing hope and providing emotional relief, games can inspire players to take action, from participating in eco-projects to supporting environmental charities. The impact of games is evident in initiatives such as the Playing for the Planet Awards, which recognize projects that drive player eco-action and raise funds for environmental causes. However, games also have limitations, and their impact is shaped by socio-economic, geographic, and technological barriers. Nevertheless, by delivering joy and creating the conditions for action to emerge, games can serve as a rehearsal space for hope, inspiring players to continue making a positive impact in the real world.