# What games are coming out in June 2025?

Summer is traditionally a calm season for the industry, but June 2025 breaks this rule. The release calendar turned out to be surprisingly eventful: here are ambitious sequels, unexpected indies, and controversial returns of old series. We studied all the announcements and chose the main thing: what is really worth spending time and money on.

## The main high-profile premieres

### Dragon Age: The Veilguard (June 20th, PC, PS5, Xbox Series X|S)

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The eight-year pause between releases and the departure of key developers raised a lot of questions: Can BioWare return to the top? The Veilguard is a new chapter not only in the series, but also in the history of the studio. The emphasis has shifted from party micromanagement towards dynamic combat, and the plot is built around relationships in the team. In some places, the game resembles Mass Effect 2: allies are not just NPCs, but full-fledged heroes with their own stories. Finding a balance between the old and the new here is everything: if fans accept the updated formula, Dragon Age can again become a cult RPG series.

### Slitterhead (June 6th, PC, PS5, Xbox Series X'S)

This is not just a game "from the creator of Silent Hill". Keiichiro Toyama in Slitterhead goes from psychological horror to something more corporeal and hyper-realistic. The fights resemble action from the early 2000s, with transformations, jumps, and not always logical dialogues. The city in which the events unfold is inspired by Hong Kong and Tokyo, but at the same time, it feels like a separate character. The atmosphere is on the verge between anxiety and grotesque. This is not a game for everyone, but these are the releases that later become cult.

### Still Wakes the Deep (June 18th, PC, PS5, Xbox Series X'S)

The Chinese Room again does what they do best - a game in which fear grows not from an external threat, but from the inside. The hero is not armed. He's not saving the world. It's just trying to survive in the confined space of an oil platform where something has gone wrong. Plot elements are transmitted through the environment: the hum of pipes, the flicker of light, scraps of recordings. This is an interactive film, where the main thing is not actions, but sensations. And yes, players are still not used to this format.

## Sequels and remakes that may surprise

### Shin Megami Tensei V: Vengeance (June 14th, PC, PS4, PS5, Xbox, Switch)

Atmospheric turn-based battles, richly prescribed mythology, and social philosophy - all this was in SMT V. But Vengeance goes further: the storyline "Vengeance" adds new characters, revises moral choices, and offers a different ending. Atlus also improved the visuals and added more save points for those who find the series too hardcore. Now it is not just a JRPG for fans, but one of the main tactical releases of the year.

### Super Monkey Ball: Banana Rumble (June 25th, Switch)

Someone will say: "These are just balls in the labyrinths". But for arcade fans, this return is like a long-awaited meeting with old friends. Banana Rumble adds 16-person multiplayer, new levels, and a track editor. The complexity has grown, and the mechanics have become a little more manageable. Unlike previous parts, there is an emphasis on competitiveness. A niche but robust release for Switch fans.

### Luigi's Mansion 2 HD (June 27th, Switch)

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Re-release of the game, which many missed due to being tied to the 3DS. The HD version has improved textures, an updated interface, and a local cooperative. It's a slow but thoughtful adventure with an emphasis on exploration. Luigi here is not just Mario's brother, but a hero with his fears and insecurities. The game balances between comedy and light horror, while remaining family.

## New and niche

### Aarik and the Ruined Kingdom (June 14th, PC)

A game without dialogue, but with a story that you read from the details. Aarik is a puzzle about restoring order: by moving objects, the player returns harmony to the ruined kingdom. The levels are built on the principle of a visual story, where each scene is like a comic book page. Meditative pace, minimalism, good music - a rare combination that is suitable not only for gamers, but also for those who usually do not favor games.

### Times & Galaxy (June 21st, PC, PS5, Xbox Series X'S)

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You are given the task of finding news in a futuristic city, talking to eyewitnesses, collecting facts and writing material. Yes, you are a robot journalist. At Times & Galaxy, it's not just the choices that matter, but how you frame the headlines. This is a profession simulator with an unexpected pitch angle. Catastrophic reports, interviews with aliens, analysis of political scandals - everything here is presented in an ironic, but not superficial form. A great option for those who are tired of heroic quests and want to feel like an intern at Reuters of the future.

## June without AAA games

The main feature of June 2025 is the lack of obvious dominance of large publishers. There are no releases from Rockstar, Ubisoft or EA. But we see dozens of projects from independent studios, niche Japanese publishers, and even small Kickstarter teams. This creates a sense of variety: everyone will find the game to their liking. It doesn't matter if you like turn-based RPGs, slow adventure games or hyperactive battle pianos - there is a choice.

## Final thoughts

June 2025 is a month that illustrates well the shift in the industry. Gone are the times when summer meant a lull. Today, players are waiting for releases all year round, and developers are adjusting to demand. Fewer big names - more freedom. This month shows what an industry without mainstream pressure can look like. And perhaps that's even for the best.

June 2025 is packed with game releases you won’t want to miss — from nostalgic sequels to fresh new titles across all platforms. Here’s what’s worth your time.

June 2025: game releases

# Gaming as new start-up platforms: How Roblox, Fortnite, and UEFN's in-game economy works

Today, gaming platforms are no longer just entertainment. These are full-fledged ecosystems where products are created, business models are built, and new entrepreneurs appear.

Startups that launch inside these worlds no longer look like toys. These are businesses with a team, investments, an understandable audience, and even marketing strategies. Generation Z and Alpha don't just spend time in virtual worlds - they live there. And they pay. This means the business has a new market that cannot be ignored.

In this article, we will analyze how the in-game economy works and what makes it attractive to startups, developers, and investors. Let's see how monetization works at Roblox, why Epic Games is developing UEFN, and how Fortnite is becoming a platform for brands and creators. We will answer the main question: is it possible to build a sustainable business in the game, and if so, how?

## Why have gaming ecosystems become interesting to entrepreneurs and investors?

Traditionally, entrepreneurs have been looking for customers offline or on classic digital platforms - sites, marketplaces, and social networks. But in the past few years, the trajectory has changed: increasingly, the entry point is the playing environment. Not because it is fashionable, but because it is effective.

Gaming ecosystems have one obvious advantage: they gather a gigantic audience. Roblox has over 70 million daily active users. Fortnite - about 250 million players per month. These users are not just playing. They're involved, they're spending, they're creating the content themselves. It's the audience that keeps the laptop on after purchase - it comes back again and again.

Investors are watching, too. Roblox entered the IPO with an estimated $41 billion, even though many of its creators are teenagers. For foundations and business angels, this is a signal: if there is a market and it is growing, it is worth going there. Especially when the entry threshold is lower than that of classic startups.

Games offer a unique business environment: fast start-up, real-time user feedback, flexible monetization tools, and ready-made infrastructure. Everything a funder needs to test an idea at no extra cost.

### Roblox: how teenagers create businesses on their platform

In Roblox, entrepreneurs often do not look the way it is customary to represent funders. These are not graduates of business schools and not former CEOs of corporations. These are schoolchildren and students who have learned to create worlds inside Roblox Studio and turned their games into a sustainable source of income.

Roblox is not just a game - it is a constructor of ecosystems. On its basis, you can create your product, build monetization, establish analytics, and scale. Successful developers get millions of views, make money on in-game purchases, and get a cut from a Roblox Premium subscription.

According to the reports of the company itself, in 2023, more than 2,000 creators on the platform earned over $30 thousand per year. Some are hundreds of thousands. They launch studios, hire teams, communicate with investors, and develop their projects as a full-fledged business. All this is inside the game, which was originally considered by many to be "just a game".

Why does it work? Roblox relied on user-generated content. This means that every user is a potential developer. And if the game goes to the audience, it takes off organically. No investment in marketing, no complex CRM, no long customer acquisition cycle.

In addition, Roblox supports developers through foundations, guides, events, and access to analytics. This is no longer a platform - it is a full-fledged business environment. Only focused on the new generation: those who grew up with a tablet in their hands and learn to build businesses from the age of 12.

### Fortnite and UEFN: When AAA tools fall into the hands of founders

If Roblox is a constructor with simple visual code and cartoonish aesthetics, then Fortnite and UEFN (Unreal Editor for Fortnite) are already about adult graphics, advanced tools, and those who are ready to treat in-game creation as a full-fledged development on Unreal Engine.

What is UEFN? This is an editor with which you can create your games right inside Fortnite. At the same time, developers use the same engine as in large AAA projects. The difference is the speed of entry and access to the huge Fortnite audience.

Epic Games has created a unique environment: a platform where you get both tools and market at the same time. UEFN allows you to publish your games (or "experiences") directly to Fortnite, and if they become popular, you make money. And not only on donations. Epic shares revenue with authors based on user engagement.

Why is this important? Developers who used to look for an investor for the first prototype can now assemble a team, make an MVP, launch a game, and test hypotheses right inside Fortnite. This makes it cheaper and faster to launch. At the same time, the creators receive feedback from the audience, analytics, and the opportunity to profit without external funding.

For entrepreneurs, this is a game-changer. Now, a studio with 2-3 people can compete for attention with large players. And if experience shows, not only does the audience come in, but also the interest of investors.

UEFN is a bridge between game production and the startup approach. Where quick launch, hypothesis testing, scaling - all this is possible in a familiar environment where users are already ready to spend money.

## Why should startups pay attention to gaming platforms?

Gaming platforms are no longer just a place for entertainment. Today, these are full-fledged digital ecosystems with millions of active users who are ready not only to play, but also to interact, create content, buy, and sell within the platform.

Audience scale. For example, Roblox, Fortnite, and other platforms collect several tens of millions of active users per month. This is a huge market where you can immediately test your ideas on a live audience without high marketing costs.

Economics within games. Inside these platforms are full-fledged economies with virtual goods, services, and currencies. Startups can offer solutions related to the sale of digital goods, subscriptions, advertising, and even financial services.

Low entry. Creating projects within game ecosystems has become easier with convenient tools and SDKs. This allows you to quickly launch a prototype and test the concept at no cost.

Monetization opportunities. In-game purchases, subscriptions, advertising, sponsorship - all this already works and brings real money. For startups, this is a chance to start making money from the very beginning.

Investor interest. Venture funds are already paying attention to gaming projects and metaverse. Startups that know how to work in these environments are given additional opportunities to attract funding.

Thus, gaming platforms today are a new space for business, where creativity and technical skills are transformed into real products and revenues.

### Examples of businesses and economics within Roblox, Fortnite and UEFN

For many entrepreneurs, this has become a launching pad for business. The creators receive income from the Roblox in-game currency, which players buy for real money. Developers earn a percentage of each transaction, and the most successful projects bring in hundreds of thousands and even millions of dollars.

Fortnite was originally just a battle royal, but now it is a platform with its own item store, events and opportunities for creators. Epic Games allows third-party developers to create content through Unreal Editor for Fortnite (UEFN), which opens up new horizons for startups. You can create your own game modes, branding collaborations and even virtual concerts, attracting millions of users.

In such ecosystems, the economic model includes the sale of skins, items, combat season passes, and monetization through advertising and partnerships. For entrepreneurs, this is not only an opportunity to create entertainment, but also to build a full-fledged business with sustainable income.

The main thing is to understand that this is not just the development of games, but the construction of an entire ecosystem with an active audience and its own market rules. It is important for startups to study the features of platforms, use the tools provided, and create products that will be in demand in specific gaming communities.

### Tips for startups starting out in gaming ecosystems

The first steps in the world of gaming platforms require understanding and adaptation to the specifics of the market. First of all, it is important to study the audience of a particular platform - who these players are, what formats and topics they are interested in, how they interact with content. The gaming ecosystem is not just code and graphics, it is a living community with its own rules.

Startups should start small: create prototypes, test ideas on a narrow audience, quickly respond to feedback. Flexibility and speed are key success factors. Don't be afraid to experiment with monetization formats and models.

The technical part also requires attention. Platforms such as Roblox and UEFN provide tools for product development and integration, but mastering these tools takes time. It is important to have a team of specialists who understand how games are built within these systems and how to better integrate the business model.

Finally, partnerships and collaborations are worth paying attention to. Joint projects with already known developers or brands help to quickly gain trust and expand the audience. Gaming ecosystems actively support such initiatives, which creates additional opportunities for growth.

As a result, success depends on the ability to combine player understanding, technological knowledge and entrepreneurial approach. Gaming platforms today are a new territory for business, where startups can not only survive, but build scalable companies.

## Successful startup cases inside gaming ecosystems

One notable example is Adopt Me! - a game inside Roblox that has grown into a business with millions of users. The creators initially focused on simple, intuitive mechanics and constant content updates. Through community engagement and regular events, the game has become a platform for monetization through virtual goods and premium access.

Another example is FNCS (Fortnite Competitive Series), where entrepreneurs and organizations build businesses around esports, tournaments, and content making. The Fortnite platform provided opportunities for large-scale competitions with a large prize pool, which attracted the attention of sponsors and advertisers.

Also worth noting are projects using UEFN (Unreal Editor for Fortnite). Startups create unique game worlds and social spaces that offer users new formats of interaction and entertainment. Such projects become a kind of metaverse, where you can simultaneously play, communicate and make purchases.

These examples show that gaming ecosystems are not just entertainment, but full-fledged business platforms with a variety of opportunities for earning and development.

## Final thoughts

Gaming platforms today open up new horizons for entrepreneurs. They combine technology, community, and economy in a single space where you can create unique products and build a business from scratch. For startups ready to adapt and learn, these ecosystems provide ample opportunities.

The main thing is to understand the specifics of each platform, work with the audience, and use the tools they offer. Then, business within games will cease to be a niche direction and will become a full-fledged part of the modern economy.

Gaming ecosystems are the next step in the development of digital entrepreneurship, and today, it is here that the trends of tomorrow are formed.

What's behind the popular gaming platforms?

Games as next-gen platforms for startups: economy inside Roblox, Fortnite, UEFN

# What's new in gaming?

We bet you know, that there has been considerable expansion in the gaming industry with new and thrusting titles designed for everyone this spring. From breathtaking action-packed games to relaxing simulations, the upcoming March and April months are filled with promising releases that aim to enhance the gaming experience. Every casual or hardcore gamer will find something that matches their level of skill. Let’s explore some of the most anticipated games hitting the shelves in these two vibrant months.

## **March 2025 releases**

### **1. Assassin's Creed: Shadows**

* **Release Date:** March 20, 2025
* **Platforms:** PC, PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X/S
* **Genre:** Action-Adventure, Open World

The latest installment in the *Assassin's Creed* series takes players to feudal Japan in 1579, where the stories of Naoe, a skilled shinobi assassin, and Yasuke, a powerful African samurai, intertwine. Set against the backdrop of the tumultuous Sengoku period, this dynamic duo will uncover their shared fate, opening a new era for Japan.

Players will enjoy unique gameplay mechanics, skills, and equipment for each character. One standout feature is the dynamic change of seasons, introducing new mechanics and locations throughout the year. Gamers can also personalize their hideout, modifying layouts and decorations while training allies and crafting gear.

### **2. BrokenLore: DON'T WATCH**

* **Release Date:** March 20, 2025
* **Platforms:** PC
* **Genre:** Psychological Horror

In this psychological horror title from the *BrokenLore* series, players step into the shoes of Shinji, a hikikomori (reclusive young man) trapped in his Tokyo apartment. As debts rise and family misunderstandings deepen, reality begins to warp around him. The only escape seems to be video games, but even they can't drown out his anxiety. The darkness is watching, and the malevolent entity Hyakume lurks just out of sight. With the laptop as his last connection to the outside world, Shinji must decide if he can trust it.

### **3. Yasuke Simulator**

* **Release Date:** March 20, 2025
* **Platforms:** PC
* **Genre:** Action-Adventure

Set in feudal Japan in 1579, this adventure action game follows Yasuke, an African warrior who arrives in Japan alongside a Jesuit missionary and becomes a samurai under Oda Nobunaga. Players will engage in battles for honor and survival during a time of great change.

The game focuses on historical accuracy, immersing players in the atmosphere of feudal Japan and allowing them to experience events through the eyes of this unique samurai. Combat relies heavily on the katana, emphasizing style, precision, and power, with hidden gear scattered throughout the map to unlock new tactical options.

![Image from Pexels](img/pexels-mareklevak-2336852.jpg "Image from Pexels")

Image from Pexels

### **4. Wreckfest 2**

* **Release Date:** March 20, 2025
* **Platforms:** PC, PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X/S
* **Genre:** Racing, Destruction

In *Wreckfest 2*, chaos and destruction take center stage. Players will take the wheel of a variety of vehicles, from old wrecks to powerful beasts, participating in crazy races and survival derbies. Each track is filled with obstacles and dangers, requiring not just driving skill but also the ability to use the environment to eliminate opponents.

The sequel improves graphics, collision physics, and destructibility, making every race unpredictable and adrenaline-fueled. It offers numerous modes, from single races and career challenges to multiplayer competitions where players can face off against friends and gamers worldwide.

### **5. Tales of the Shire: The Lord of The Rings Game**

* **Release Date:** March 25, 2025
* **Platforms:** PC, PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X/S, Nintendo Switch
* **Genre:** Simulation

This cozy sim invites players to experience hobbit life in the *Lord of the Rings* universe. Create your own hobbit and venture into Bywater, a quaint village in the Shire. Set between *The Hobbit* and *The Lord of the Rings*, the game features a beautifully crafted world based on maps drawn by J.R.R. Tolkien himself.

As players progress, they can decorate their hobbit holes, tend to gardens, fish in clear ponds, gather wild fruits and herbs, and trade with townsfolk, immersing themselves in the charming life of a hobbit. The game emphasizes relaxation and creativity, allowing players to build relationships with other characters and experience the warmth of Shire life.

### **6. AI Limit**

* **Release Date:** March 27, 2025
* **Platforms:** PC, PlayStation 5
* **Genre:** Action, RPG

In a post-apocalyptic world where civilization has collapsed due to a mysterious ecosystem collapse, disasters, and wars, players will take on the role of a Blade — a new form of life created through enigmatic technology resembling humans.

Tasked with uncovering the truth about humanity’s past, the protagonist ventures into Havenwell, the last city of mankind, battling hordes of monsters that now roam the earth. This game promises a rich narrative and engaging combat mechanics, exploring themes of survival and identity.

## **April 2025 releases**

As we transition into April, the gaming landscape continues to flourish with exciting new releases that cater to diverse tastes.

![Image from Pexels](img/pexels-kowalievska-1174746-1-.jpg "Image from Pexels")

Image from Pexels

### **1. The Last of Us Part 2 Remastered**

* **Release Date:** April 3, 2025
* **Platforms:** PC
* **Genre:** Action, Adventure, Narrative

Fans of the original *The Last of Us Part 2* will be thrilled to see this remastered version that enhances the graphics and gameplay while retaining the compelling narrative. Set five years after the original, players will once again follow Ellie’s journey in a post-apocalyptic world, facing moral dilemmas and emotional challenges that define her character.

### **2. Three Skies Ascension**

* **Release Date:** April 3, 2025
* **Platforms:** PC
* **Genre:** Free-to-Play, Strategy, RPG

This adventure RPG features stunning graphics and hardcore nonlinear dungeons. Players will engage in turn-based battles while exploring a beautifully crafted world, encountering a variety of characters and story arcs that enhance the gameplay experience. The game emphasizes strategy and character development, allowing players to tailor their heroes to their preferred playstyle.

### **3. IXION**

* **Release Date:** April 8, 2025
* **Platforms:** PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X/S
* **Genre:** Strategy, Sci-Fi, Simulation

In *IXION*, players will manage resources and explore a futuristic world filled with challenges. They will build a space station, make critical decisions that affect the survival of their crew, and uncover the mysteries of the universe. With a rating of **9/10** on Steam, this game offers a blend of strategy and simulation that will keep players engaged for hours.

### **4. South of Midnight**

* **Release Date:** April 8, 2025
* **Platforms:** PC, Xbox Series X/S
* **Genre:** Action, Adventure, Fantasy

Set in the southern United States, this action-adventure title is rich in mythology and atmosphere. Players will navigate a world full of fantastic creatures and face challenges that test their skills. The game combines exploration, combat, and puzzle-solving, allowing players to uncover the secrets of a world steeped in folklore.

### **5. Descenders Next**

* **Release Date:** April 10, 2025
* **Platforms:** Multiple
* **Genre:** Simulator, Sports

This dynamic game allows players to ride on snowboards and mountain bikes across diverse terrains. With cooperative play and engaging challenges, *Descenders Next* promises an exhilarating experience for sports enthusiasts. Players can customize their rides, explore procedurally generated worlds, and compete in various challenges.

### **6. Crashlands 2**

* **Release Date:** April 10, 2025
* **Platforms:** PC, iOS, Android
* **Genre:** RPG, Adventure, Action

The sequel to the beloved *Crashlands*, this game takes players on an adventure across new planets filled with unique creatures and challenges. Players will craft their way through a vibrant world while facing unexpected encounters. The game’s humor and engaging storylines make it a standout title for fans of the genre.

### **7. Steel Seed**

* **Release Date:** April 10, 2025
* **Platforms:** PC, PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X/S
* **Genre:** Action, Adventure, Sci-Fi

In this dystopian tale, players navigate a world controlled by artificial intelligence. The gripping storyline and thrilling gameplay mechanics are sure to captivate players seeking an immersive experience. Players will engage in intense combat while uncovering the dark secrets behind the AI's control.

### **8. Hollywood Animal**

* **Release Date:** April 10, 2025
* **Platforms:** PC
* **Genre:** Simulator, Strategy, Management

As the head of a Hollywood studio during the dawn of sound cinema, players will navigate the complexities of the film industry, dealing with creative challenges and managing resources to build a successful studio. This simulation game combines strategy with storytelling, allowing players to create blockbuster films and manage their star-studded cast.

### **9. E.T.E Chronicle**

* **Release Date:** April 15, 2025
* **Platforms:** iOS, PC
* **Genre:** Anime, RPG, Adventure

Set in the near future, players will engage with tactical exoskeletons created from alien remains. This RPG combines strategic elements with a rich narrative, making it a must-play for fans of the genre. Players will navigate a world on the brink of collapse, filled with intrigue and danger.

### **10. Mandragora**

* **Release Date:** April 17, 2025
* **Platforms:** PC, PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X/S, Nintendo Switch
* **Genre:** Action, Adventure, Metroidvania

This Metroidvania-style game invites players into a world where they will face monstrous threats while uncovering secrets and enhancing their abilities. With a high anticipation rating, *Mandragora* is set to deliver an engaging experience. Players will explore interconnected environments, solve intricate puzzles, and confront powerful foes.

## Final thoughts

The gaming world is full of new, upcoming games to appeal to every taste. These upcoming games promise thrilling gameplay and compelling stories, and they demonstrate the creativity and innovation in gaming today. Whether you prefer intense action adventures or relaxing life simulations, something for everyone to anticipate.\
\
Get ready, mark your calendars, and gear up for an exciting gaming experience that's coming your way!

Explore the upcoming game releases on The Cymes! 

The most anticipated game releases of spring: what to expect in the coming months? 

# Not’s just a child’s play

Video games have gone from just being fun to being important tools in personal growth and the development of skills. The gaming industry is projected to grow to more than $200 billion, so it's very important to understand how different types of games can help build important soft skills. This article will connect gaming types with the development of soft skills based on recent studies that looked at how gamers think and their ability to understand others' feelings.

## What’s hidden behind the popularity of video games?

The video game industry has undergone great changes since its beginning. From games for children and teenagers, they became a target for all groups, including adults who spend hours in front of the screen with different types of games. Gaming will be part of modern culture, so it is relevant to investigate the role of various game genres in developing skills.

### Historical context

Video games began as simple pixelated graphics in the 1970s and have transformed into immersive experiences with intricate storylines, realistic graphics, and engaging gameplay. The rise of personal computers, gaming consoles, and mobile devices has democratized access to gaming, making it a popular pastime across demographics. Studies show that approximately 61% of U.S. adults play video games, with the average age of gamers being 36 years old.

### The impact of gaming culture

The development of gaming culture has led to the creation of a gamer identity, characterized by choices in gaming platforms, genres, specific games, and playing styles. This culture has also given rise to eSports, where top players compete for substantial cash prizes. The competitive nature of eSports has highlighted the importance of understanding the effects of video games on cognitive and emotional aspects in early adulthood, a critical period for personal development.

![Image by Pexels](img/pexels-cottonbro-4842496.jpg "Image by Pexels")

Image by [Pexels](https://www.pexels.com/ru-ru/)

## Choose your fighter…

Video games can be categorized into several genres, each requiring unique skills and offering distinct benefits. The most common genres include:

1. **Action Games**: These games emphasize physical challenges, including hand-eye coordination and reaction time. Players are often put in fast-paced scenarios where quick decisions and acute attention are required. The cognitive demands of action games have the potential to improve players' psychomotor skills and improve their attentional capacities.
2. **Role-Playing Games (RPGs)**: RPGs immerse players in complex narratives where they assume the roles of characters. This genre encourages strategic thinking, problem-solving, and emotional engagement. Research by Zioga et al. (2024) indicates that RPGs can positively influence verbal working memory and empathy, as players navigate social interactions and moral dilemmas. In one notable example, a study found that players of RPGs scored higher on empathy assessments compared to those who played non-narrative games.
3. **Puzzle Games**: These games challenge players to solve problems and think critically. They are excellent for developing logical reasoning and spatial awareness. Research in the *Journal of Experimental Psychology* showed that players of puzzle games exhibited improvements in visuospatial working memory, as they must manipulate shapes and patterns to progress.
4. **Strategy Games**: These games require foresight and planning; thus, engaging a player in long-term thinking wherein the participant has to manage resources, make tactical decisions, and anticipate opponents' moves. We can cultivate critical thinking and organizational skills that are also important in personal and professional life. One meta-analysis, published in *Computers in Human Behavior*, reported that players of strategy games showed better problem-solving skills.
5. **Simulation Games**: They allow players to experience real-life scenarios and try out new things with no real-world risk. They foster creativity and flexibility since the players have to act on ever-changing circumstances and consequences. Simulation games were also found to enhance negotiation skills and teamwork.
6. **Sports Games**: Simulating real sports, these games enhance teamwork and communication skills. Players often work together to achieve common goals, mirroring real-life scenarios in professional sports settings. Research indicates that players of cooperative sports games report improved collaboration and communication skills.
7. **Educational Games**: Designed with a primary focus on learning, educational games integrate entertainment with educational content, making learning engaging and interactive. Studies have shown that educational games can boost motivation and retention rates among learners.

## Why your mom was wrong about video games?

Recent evidence has proved that gaming skill can have a positive effect on cognitive functions such as:

* **Verbal short-term and working memory**: RPGs have been linked to improvements in verbal memory, as players engage with dialogue and narrative structures, enhancing their ability to recall and process information. A notable study demonstrated that players of narrative-driven RPGs outperformed non-gamers in verbal memory tasks.
* **Visuospatial skills**: Action and puzzle games require players to navigate 3D environments and manipulate objects, thereby improving their visuospatial short-term and working memory. Research has shown that frequent players of action games exhibit enhanced spatial navigation skills and faster reaction times in visuospatial tasks.
* **Attention and psychomotor speed**: Fast-paced games demand heightened levels of attention and quick reflexes, fostering better psychomotor coordination and reaction times. A study published in *Cognitive Psychology* found that action game players had superior attentional capacities and could track multiple moving objects more effectively than non-gamers.

The findings underline the potential of video games to be one of the effective tools in cognitive training. Players, while engaging in different genres, develop their mental acuity and acquire skills transferable to real situations.

## EQ in Gaming

Beyond cognitive skills, video games also play a significant role in developing emotional intelligence and empathy. The capacity to understand and share the feelings of others is crucial in both personal and professional contexts. The study by Zioga et al. (2024) suggests that while action games may not directly enhance empathy, RPGs and cooperative games can foster emotional connections and understanding.

### How do RPGs help here?

Most RPGs include moral decisions where one has to consider the perspective and feelings of several characters, which again heightens empathetic responses since such engagement makes people negotiate relationships and choices with implications for the unfolding narrative. Skills of roleplay will enhance the player's  understanding of other perspectives. A study in *Computers in Human Behavior* found that players who engaged in RPGs reported higher levels of empathy and prosocial behavior compared to those who engaged in competitive games.

### Cooperative gaming and team dynamics

Multiplayer and cooperative games develop teamwork among players, requiring effective communication and mutual support among the team members. Such interaction can help them enhance their social skills and emotional intelligence, given that they try to resolve any conflict, share the workload, or rejoice over victory together. That is why it is so close to real-life teamwork and thus beneficial for personal and professional development. For one thing, studies have proven that cooperative game players tend to show stronger communicative skills and even better conflict-resolution abilities.

### Do video games prevent depression?

For individuals over the age of 40, real-time strategy games can help prevent or significantly delay the onset of neurodegenerative diseases such as dementia and Alzheimer's. These games enhance critical thinking and cognitive abilities, enabling players to acquire, filter, store, process, and retrieve information effectively. However, researchers emphasize that outdoor physical activity remains the preferred option for overall well-being.

Video games also play a role in combating depression, with genres like shooters and action games proving particularly effective in this regard. For teenagers, gaming serves as a valuable tool for building relationships with peers and parents, both online and offline. Remarkably, two-thirds of surveyed individuals reported learning empathy through their gaming experiences.

Parents may be surprised to learn that video games can foster a love for reading and improve literacy skills, especially in text-heavy games—some of which contain far more text than classic literatureю In fact, a significant majority of young gamers (three out of five) write about their gaming interests at least once a month, contributing scripts (27.5%), tips for fellow gamers (22.1%), fan fiction (10.8%), and game reviews (8%).

Of course, engaging in gaming does not mean that a console can cure illnesses without professional intervention, restore mental peace, or mend relationships at school or home. Furthermore, video games will never replace the value of books or face-to-face interactions. Nonetheless, they can provide an emotional outlet that offers both relaxation and mental stimulation.

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## The impact of gaming on soft skills

Soft skills—such as communication, teamwork, adaptability, and problem-solving—are essential for success in today's job market. Video games can play a great role in developing these competencies, particularly for young adults transitioning into the workforce.

### Communication skills

Many video games require players to communicate effectively, whether through voice chat or in-game messaging. This practice enhances verbal and non-verbal communication skills, as players learn to convey strategies, express emotions, and provide feedback in dynamic environments. A study published in the *International Journal of Human-Computer Interaction* found that players who engage in multiplayer games exhibit improved communication skills and a better understanding of non-verbal cues.

### Teamwork and collaboration

Games that emphasize teamwork foster collaboration among players, teaching them how to work together toward common goals. This experience is invaluable in professional settings, where teamwork is often critical to project success. Players learn to appreciate diverse perspectives, negotiate roles, and resolve conflicts, all of which are essential skills in any workplace. Players of team-based games report higher levels of trust and cooperation compared to those who play solo.

### Adaptability and problem-solving

Most games are unpredictable, which makes players work on their feet, adapting to any new situation that arises. In the fast-moving work environment today, this adaptability is really important. Playing games helps people develop problem-solving skills as they go through many obstacles and work out ways to overcome them.

### Leadership skills

In multiplayer games, for example, gamers tend to lead groups of teams, guiding them to victory. Such type of experience usually develops leadership roles, such as decision-making and motivating skills in inspiring others. According to research in the Leadership Quarterly, playing video games, especially taking the role of the leader, fosters greater amounts of self-efficacy and leadership performance that could likely be transformed into real-life leaders.

## Future research directions

While the relationship between gaming and skill development is promising, further research is needed to explore the long-term impacts of gaming on soft skills. Future studies could focus on:

* **Genre-specific effects**: Investigating how different genres uniquely contribute to skill development and emotional intelligence, considering factors such as age, gender, and cultural background.
* **Demographic variations**: Examining how different demographic factors influence the impact of gaming on cognitive and emotional skills. For instance, research could explore how gaming affects different age groups or genders.
* **Longitudinal studies**: Conducting long-term studies to assess how gaming influences skill retention and transferability to real-life situations over time. These studies could provide insights into the lasting effects of gaming on personal and professional development.
* **Integration in education**: Exploring how video games can be integrated into educational curricula to enhance learning outcomes and skill development. Research could examine the effectiveness of educational games in teaching various subjects and fostering critical thinking.

## What’s next for games?

Video gaming is no longer regarded as a source of amusement. It is transformed into a significant means of inculcating critical interpersonal skills. Games can assist players in refining their cerebral abilities, boosting their emotional quotient, and developing their ability to work with others. It would be of utmost importance to remember the possible applications that gaming would offer not only in self-improvement but also in education as well, as the industry continues to expand.

Various studies that have been conducted in the past that reveal the gaming genre’s effect on the brain and the psyche show the necessity of being very well and thoroughly familiar with cartoons and how they affect lacks to plenty of skills improvement. In this new world of development and gaming, there is no limit for any amateur. Many new possibilities can be incorporated so as to use video gaming for active learning and as a part of one’s training or even vocational education.

As soft skills become increasingly important in the present culture, tapping into this framework of video gaming could change how education and even self-growth are conceptualized. The advantages, regardless of whether you are a frequent gamer or just thinking about it, can go beyond the virtual world and aid you in developing useful skills for future difficulties, are comprehensive.

Did you know that video games are now recognized as important tools for personal growth?   Understanding how various game genres can improve soft skills is more important than ever.

What is the impact of game genres on our thinking?

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