A new study conducted in Japan during the COVID-19 pandemic suggests that playing video games can positively impact mental health. The research, published in the journal Nature Human Behaviour, explores how access to gaming consoles affected people’s psychological well-being amid the global health crisis.

In 2020, the pandemic caused significant disruptions to global supply chains, leading to a shortage of popular gaming consoles like the Nintendo Switch and PlayStation 5 (PS5). To manage the limited supply, Japanese retailers implemented a lottery system to allocate these consoles. This situation provided researchers with a unique opportunity to study the effects of gaming on mental health through a natural experiment.

The study surveyed nearly 98,000 individuals, including about 8,200 who participated in the lottery for the consoles. The findings revealed that those who obtained a gaming console reported reduced psychological distress and enhanced life satisfaction. The study indicated that engaging in video games improved overall mental well-being, though the effect was described as “minor but perceptible,” according to Nick Ballou, a postdoctoral researcher at the Oxford Internet Institute.

Ballou, who was not involved in the study, noted that while the positive impact of gaming on mental health was clear, the results could have been influenced by the pandemic’s broader context. During the early months of the pandemic, people faced heightened mental health challenges due to social isolation and limited access to other activities. Many turned to gaming as a form of solace during this period.

“We have substantial evidence that people relied on games as a lifeline during the pandemic’s early stages,” Ballou told Euronews Health. His own research supports the idea that video games helped individuals manage the mental strain of the COVID-19 era.

The study’s findings contribute to the growing body of evidence suggesting that video games can serve as a valuable tool for improving mental health, particularly in times of crisis. As the world continues to navigate the impacts of the pandemic, this research underscores the potential benefits of gaming as a means of coping with psychological stress.

In a strategic move to bolster its virtual reality content offerings, Meta has acquired the rights to the Tilda Swinton-led VR documentary, “Impulse: Playing With Reality.”

August 21, 2024—Meta, the tech giant known for its pioneering efforts in virtual and augmented reality, announced today its acquisition of the VR documentary Impulse: Playing With Reality, featuring acclaimed actress Tilda Swinton. The acquisition underscores Meta’s commitment to expanding its immersive content library, as it continues to evolve its VR ecosystem and broaden its appeal to both tech enthusiasts and mainstream audiences.

The documentary, which explores the intersection of art, technology, and human consciousness, leverages the unique capabilities of virtual reality to deliver a deeply immersive experience. Swinton, renowned for her eclectic and powerful performances, serves as both the narrator and a central figure in the film, guiding viewers through a series of mind-bending scenarios that challenge perceptions of reality.

Directed by acclaimed filmmaker Sophie Vukovic, Impulse: Playing With Reality has garnered significant attention for its innovative use of VR technology, allowing viewers to engage with the content in a way that traditional films cannot. The project has been described as a “transformative experience” that pushes the boundaries of storytelling by blending cinematic techniques with interactive elements, making it a fitting addition to Meta’s growing portfolio of VR experiences.

“Impulse represents a new frontier in immersive storytelling,” said a Meta spokesperson in a statement. “We are thrilled to bring this groundbreaking work to our platform, providing users with a unique opportunity to experience the future of narrative art.”

The acquisition aligns with Meta’s broader strategy to lead the VR content market, as it continues to invest heavily in original productions, partnerships with content creators, and the development of next-generation VR hardware. The company’s focus on creating a robust content ecosystem is seen as a crucial component in driving the adoption of VR technology among consumers.

As Meta looks to position itself at the forefront of the metaverse, the addition of Impulse: Playing With Reality is expected to draw both VR aficionados and fans of Tilda Swinton, enhancing the platform’s cultural cachet. The documentary will be available exclusively on Meta’s VR platforms later this year, adding to the growing slate of original and exclusive content designed to make VR a more compelling medium for entertainment and art.

This acquisition marks yet another step in Meta’s ongoing journey to redefine the boundaries of digital interaction, signaling its determination to shape the future of how stories are told and experienced.

August 6, 2024 — Victoria Canal has taken to social media to quash rumors that she is romantically involved with “Top Gun” star Tom Cruise. The singer-songwriter, known for her soulful voice and inspiring journey, swiftly shut down the speculation that started after the two met at the Glastonbury Festival earlier this year.

“Guys, this is literally bonkers,” Canal, 25, wrote on her Instagram on August 5. “But apparently the tabloids think I am dating Tom Cruise. I’m deceased.” The “June Baby” artist humorously clarified, “I’m sorry to bum u out but I am not dating the man, albeit a lovely person & artist. lol never thought I would have to clarify that out loud in my life.”

Canal, who has been collaborating with Coldplay’s Chris Martin since 2022, didn’t stop at debunking the rumors. She also took the opportunity to poke fun at the tabloids, jesting that they should at least choose a better photo of her for their stories. In a light-hearted remark, she expressed her delight at being referred to as “Spanish-American singer Victoria Canal” rather than being reduced to “one-armed pianist whose name remains unmentioned!!!! there’s always a win somewhere, thanks Tom.”

Born with a right forearm due to Amniotic Band Syndrome, Canal has never let her physical condition define her. Instead, she has become a symbol of resilience and talent, breaking barriers with her music and positive attitude. In her Instagram post, she emphasized that Cruise, 62, has been “nothing but a respectful and encouraging person and mentor,” likening him to other influential figures in her life, including her father, music teachers, and Chris Martin.

As Victoria Canal continues to rise in the music world, she remains grounded and true to herself, gracefully handling the whirlwind of public speculation with humor and grace. And as for those dating rumors? Consider them officially grounded.