Zengence Video Game Review 2024

If a mindfulness-inspired shooter seems like an unlikely mashup, you wouldn’t be wrong. But that’s the premise behind Zengence, a virtual reality first-person shooter that tasks you with defeating enemies with your breath. Think Dracarys à la “House of the Dragon,” but you inhale and exhale to reduce anxiety rather than total destruction.

I’ve loved video games since I was a kid, and even though I’m no longer a regular gamer, I still see them as a way to connect with family and friends. Therefore, I am very interested in Zengence’s concept of improving health through games. You often hear that video games are bad for your health and mental health. But Ryan Douglas, co-founder, chairman and treatment designer at DeepWell DTx, the technology company that developed Zengence, told PS that the study doesn’t necessarily confirm this.

Douglas’s own in-depth research into the science of video games suggests that video games can provide “excellent therapeutic benefits,” and with Zengence, the team “wanted to show that shooters aren’t bad for you.” Their approach appears to be working. In fact, the company’s gaming biofeedback software development kit used in Zengence just received FDA approval as an over-the-counter stress-reducing treatment.

Personally, I love gripping fighting games like Tekken, Street Fighter, and Mortal Kombat, as well as timeless classics like Mario Kart, Zelda, and Pokémon Classic game. I totally understand how video games are a way to embrace the uniqueness of your identity, and the trend towards interactive games designed for exergaming, physical activity and sports. The idea behind Zengence, a fun, fantasy-inspired shooter combined with the angle of finding zen through breathing and meditation, was compelling enough to get me interested in trying it out.

The brand sent us a Meta device with a copy of Zengence to try out. Read on for my honest impressions of the game.

Why I like Zengence

When I entered the world of Zengence, my first impression was one of nostalgia. There isn’t a single element that reminds me of the games I played in my youth, including Zelda, Final Fantasy, or Spyro the Dragon, but rather the relaxing lo-fi music, creative and abstract artwork, and fantasy style The combination of the design and the mission – to use the magical element “Ghost” to fight the forces of evil – evokes fond memories.

This shooter offers no traditional walkthrough; instead, you jump right into the first level without step-by-step instructions. (If you need more guidance, Zengence also lets you play in a separate area of ​​the game, the Zen Garden. This is more focused on guided follow-through, letting you practice techniques like box breathing. Any rewards you earn from The Zen Garden stage can be transferred to normal gameplay.

In the game, you’re encouraged to use your breathing – which might look like just inhaling and exhaling, or a combination of vocalizing and humming – to evade ghosts. Everything you do in the Zengence universe has intention and purpose: to help you identify, push aside and release anxious thoughts and create a stronger connection with your breath. Douglas says the techniques you use are designed to stimulate the vagus nerve, which can help you relax and get out of your head.

I love using your breath to chase away evil bad guys like ghosts, which can translate into learning to use your breath to solve difficulties or eliminate negative thoughts. Coping with anxiety, depression, or burnout can be overwhelming. Many people play games to relax or distract themselves from negative emotions. Knowing that the purpose of the game is to help you stay present and build resilience is a huge advantage.

A small detail, but I also love music, especially lo-fi style tracks, it’s one of my favorites when I’m studying or working; it helps me focus.

Overall, I think the concept of combining meditation-like breathing with a first-person shooter is super innovative, and I’m interested to see if this time around video games become more popular in the future.

What to consider before trying Zengence

This is a common concern with VR games, however: make sure you have enough space around you to avoid any accidents. You definitely don’t want to bump into anything sharp while walking around. You can play the game standing still, but you’ll notice that in-game features may change when you actually move.

Douglas told PS that for best mental health results, you should aim to play for 15 minutes a day, three times a week. If you have any pre-existing health conditions, or are unsure of your fitness level, it is best to consult your primary care professional or clinician before starting. Get professional advice. Keep in mind that if you breathe too fast, you may feel a little dizzy!

Additionally, you’ll need your own Meta Quest ($300-$1,000) to play the game. I don’t own a Meta myself, but the brand loaned me one to try. If cost is a financial barrier, Meta does sell refurbished devices, including a refurbished Meta Quest 2 ($190), which might fit your budget better.

Finally, it’s worth noting that while research on how video games affect mental health may be promising, more research is needed before final conclusions can be drawn. Still, interestingly, research shows that intentionally designed video games can help, rather than harm, mental health. For example, in a small study of 46 individuals with clinical depression, Frontiers in Psychiatry research suggests that video games may have the potential to make people feel better and even improve working memory. A systematic review from JMIR Mental Health found that playing video games for even a few minutes can help people relax and may help reduce stress and anxiety and improve self-image.

Who is Zengence video game suitable for?

Zengence is great for people who like to explore new video games. It’s also great for people who are into emerging trends in breathing, meditation, and wellness.

This game offers exciting new possibilities for future mental health treatments. If you’re stressed out and juggling multiple responsibilities, this game might be just what you need to help you find balance.

More details about Zenence

Where can I buy Zengence?

You can purchase the Zengence: Aim Every Breath ($20) video game at the Meta Game Store. It is compatible with Meta Quest 2 and Meta Quest 3 VR headsets.

grade
★★★★☆

Jade Esmeralda, MS, CSCS, is a health and fitness staff writer and strength and conditioning expert. Jade is a lifelong martial artist and dancer with a strong passion for strength and conditioning, sports science, and human performance. She graduated from George Washington University with a Master of Science degree in Exercise Science and Strength and Conditioning.