Study: Those At High Risk of Social Withdrawal Prefer Cooperative, Low-Pressure Video Games

July 31, 2026 - 22:17

A new study from Japan suggests that individuals at high risk for severe social withdrawal, a condition known as hikikomori, tend to prefer cooperative and low-pressure video games over competitive ones. Researchers surveyed 529 Japanese gamers, asking about their gaming habits, social preferences, and psychological traits. The findings were published this month in a peer-reviewed psychology journal.

The study found that those who scored higher on a scale measuring risk for social withdrawal were significantly more likely to enjoy games that emphasize teamwork, shared goals, and relaxed pacing. In contrast, they showed less interest in high-stakes competitive titles that require quick reactions and direct confrontation with other players. The researchers believe this preference reflects a broader desire for safe, predictable social interactions that do not trigger anxiety or fear of judgment.

Lead author Dr. Yuki Tanaka explained that cooperative games may offer a "social buffer" for people who struggle with face-to-face communication. In these virtual spaces, players can contribute without the pressure of outperforming others or being evaluated on individual skill. The study also noted that such games might serve as a stepping stone for building social confidence, though the authors caution that they are not a cure for withdrawal.

The research team hopes these findings will help game developers and mental health professionals design better interventions. They suggest that low-pressure cooperative games could be used as a tool to gently re-engage isolated individuals, rather than simply dismissing gaming as a harmful escape. However, they also stress that the study is observational and does not prove cause and effect. Further research is needed to see if changing game types can actually reduce withdrawal symptoms over time.