The Legend of Zelda Proven to Improve Mental Health

While The Legend of Zelda has long been celebrated as one of the greatest and most beloved franchises in gaming, new research now confirms it offers more than just entertainment. Playing The Legend of Zelda can actually improve mental health, giving players a sense of calm, purpose, and deeper meaning in life.

Research shows Zelda boosts happiness and purpose

A collaborative study conducted by Imperial College London, Kyushu Sangyo University, and Georgia State University involved 500 students who played The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild and watched Studio Ghibli films such as My Neighbour Totoro and Kiki’s Delivery Service.

After playing Zelda, participants completed surveys measuring feelings of exploration, purpose, skills, calmness, mastery, and meaning in life. Results revealed that most players felt happier and more purposeful after their time with the game.

Researchers explained that engaging with such symbolic narratives creates a sense of taking on a mission greater than oneself. Even though the world is fictional, the emotional impact is profoundly real.

Zelda as a meditative escape

Beyond its grand adventures, the game also offers quiet, restorative moments: riding a horse through open fields, gathering resources in silence, or watching a sunrise from a mountaintop. These experiences evoke a meditative effect, allowing players to unwind in a virtual sanctuary.

The research quickly went viral on TikTok, with clips discussing the findings reaching over 77,000 views. Fans overwhelmingly agreed with the results. One player commented, “I just finished Tears of the Kingdom and immediately started over—it makes me truly happy.” Another added, “Breath of the Wild is my comfort game. I play it slowly just to stretch out the joy.”

Many shared similar stories of turning to Zelda after stressful workdays or dedicating hundreds of hours to Breath of the Wild and Tears of the Kingdom as a form of self-care.

Zelda as more than a legendary adventure

This study reinforces that The Legend of Zelda is not only a legendary adventure series but also a space for healing, mindfulness, and emotional growth. Whether through Breath of the Wild, Tears of the Kingdom, or past installments, Zelda offers experiences that leave players calmer, happier, and more grounded.

The question now is: can video games serve as a powerful tool for mental well-being? For Zelda fans, the answer seems clear.