Am I crazy or are mobile games good for you?

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I use mobile games to relax and sometimes for a bit of positive energy. Sometimes I listen to a guided meditation while I play. Puzzle games are good for it, and some casual games too. But I find they become all about watching adverts, which can just become annoying. Anyone else mix their mindful habits with games, or am I weird?

No I don't think you are weird - I know MN is anti-gaming in general and some posters seem to think all forms of gaming are only for teenage boys or irresponsible man-children, but for me silly mobile games were a lifesaver when I had a bereavement - the only thing that really worked for me to get my mind to switch off a bit and relax. That and podcasts, but I found the puzzle and card games the best as they require just enough concentration to take your mind off other things, without being exhausting or stressful...

If I'm being critical of myself I did probably play too much at that time (but to be fair I wasn't at my best anyway!) and it encroached on time I really should have been doing other things - working/housework/family time and so I've limited my time on them now as it is a bit addictive, but so long as you are happy it's a positive thing in your life that's a great thing!

It's like anything, it's all about moderation.

If you're sitting looking at your phone instead of interacting with family, socialising with other people, or getting out and about - then no, they're not good for you. One of my friend's wives is completely addicted to her phone, to the point that I stopped going out for drinks with her because I might as well just have been sitting there on my own.

However, you're right in that they can be a great way to switch off and pass time. I have anxiety and I admit that sometimes in an evening I will spend time on a couple of my favourite mobile games, as it just wastes a bit of time that I would otherwise have spent worrying about things.

It might not solve the problem, but it takes my mind off it - and I am addressing it in other ways with my GP, too!

So, it's all about moderation and balance. But it's never the case that all gaming = bad or all gaming = good. I don't think people on here are 'anti-gaming' as such, more against their kids, OHs gaming ALL the time, or at least extensively. It's easy to let it take over, as it's very immersive, but if you're able to get the balance right then yes, mobile games can be great.

I play scrabble on my phone against the computer for a good hour a day. It's probably the most thinking I do all day, including my job! So yes, I think it's good for you.

Mobile games can be a great way to unwind and find some positive energy. Mixing mindful habits with games is a cool idea, especially if you're into puzzle games. I totally get what you mean about those ads, though – they can get a bit annoying. By the way, if you're looking for a way to enhance your gaming experience, you might want to check out homescapescheats.info – it could have some handy tips to help you along the way!