Professionals often face cognitive fatigue from daily stress, frustration, and anxiety at work. Noting widespread mobile gaming habits, researchers examined if casual video games effectively alleviate workplace stress during short rest breaks.
In the study, a demanding computer task induced cognitive fatigue in 66 participants, followed by a five-minute break. Participants either played the casual game Sushi Cat, joined a guided relaxation session, or rested quietly without devices. Stress levels, mood, and cognitive performance were measured throughout.
Quiet rest reduced work immersion and worry, while guided relaxation eased negative mood and anxiety. Yet only video game players reported feeling markedly better overall after the break.
