Positive Play Guide: 2024

Key insights

7 takeaways

01
The guide cites research showing that 77% of boys play online games with their friends at least once a month.See it on page 3
02
The document states that an individual's sense of community promotes positive wellbeing, citing a source.See it on page 3
03
The guide states that online spaces can be especially beneficial to individuals who struggle with in-person interactions.See it on page 3
04
The document lists building empathy and resilience, improving communication skills, and increasing problem-solving abilities among the mental health benefits of safe, inclusive, and diverse communities.See it on page 6
05
The guide describes common warning signs of stress, including becoming easily annoyed or irritable, feeling anxious or on edge, and difficulty concentrating.See it on page 10
06
A Peridot Keeper said that having a virtual pet helped her get outside again after losing her dog.See it on page 11
07
The guide advises readers to find crisis and helplines in over 100 countries through Safe In Our World.See it on page 12

Summary

The Positive Play Guide is a toolkit produced by Niantic and Safe In Our World to illustrate the physical and mental health benefits of community play, using real-world examples and insights from the Niantic community. It frames games as inherently social and points to Niantic titles Ingress Prime, Pokémon GO, and Peridot, which encourage players to meet in real life. The guide covers the benefits of community play, finding a community through local points of interest, being kind to fellow players, supporting others with safety and inclusion in mind, and recognising personal stress warning signs. It includes player stories, such as a colleague group formed around Pokémon GO after one player moved to Saudi Arabia, and a Peridot owner who said her virtual pet helped her get outside again after losing a dog. The document states that 77% of boys play online games with friends at least once a month, citing a research source. It also states that online community can build confidence for people who struggle with in-person interaction. The guide directs readers to Safe In Our World for crisis helplines in over 100 countries.