Sending Kind Words across the world…
I said in one of my previous blog posts that I was on the hunt for games that help with stress and mental health. Sometimes shooting things is a great opportunity to release the anger, but other times you just need a reassuring hand on the shoulder or someone to put the kettle on.
Kind Words (lo fi chill beats to write to) is a little nugget of kindness.
Available on Steam, this “game” isn’t really a game. It’s an opportunity to send and receive anonymous letters or notes of kindness.
Your avatar gets a little room with a writing desk; and a mail deer will pop by and fill you in on the mechanics or offer new music to listen to. In the game:
- you can post a request for support or kind words, where others will be able to reply with either advice or comfort.
- Or you can reply to a request – or not, there’s no obligation.
- The third option is to send a paper plane out into the universe for people to catch and read; these can be jokes, motivational sayings, compliments, etc.
When you reply to a request, the original author can say “thank you” using stickers, which can then be made into decorations for your little room. You can in turn thank others for their replies to your request using stickers.
It’s very clear at the beginning, this game is not to meet people – you’re meant to stay anonymous. And maybe that’s not for everyone; but maybe a gesture of kindness, sympathy or some well placed advice will help a little?
But for me, on the couple of occasions I went online – it was nice to be heard by someone. For others to just say “I get that”, and for no emotional transaction to be made or debt owed. This shouldn’t be a replacement for mental health care or support; if you need professional help, please seek it from the appropriate channels. But if you need that reassuring hand on your shoulder, this is for you.
Available on Steam only for £3.99 (price correct at time of writing)
