In light of the ongoing global environmental challenges, the majority of news headlines on various platforms are dominated by reports on distressing floods, disappearing ecosystems, and melting glaciers. This concerning state of our planet has become a source of anxiety for a significant portion of the population. A recent study conducted by the American Psychological Association uncovered that climate anxiety is affecting over two-thirds of Americans to varying degrees.
In response to the growing prevalence of climate anxiety, people are adopting various methods of escapism and seeking ways to mitigate their concerns. Many are becoming proactive advocates for environmental conservation, participating in grassroots movements, and supporting policies aimed at mitigating climate change. Moreover, mental health professionals are recognising the importance of addressing climate anxiety and offering therapy and support to those who are grappling with the emotional toll of these environmental issues. It is crucial to acknowledge that climate anxiety is a legitimate concern and, by addressing it openly, we can better navigate the psychological challenges posed by our changing world.
But have you ever thought of a solution that incorporates the element of play?
Enter Terra Nil
Terra Nil, released on March 28 2023, is a strategy video game developed by Free Lives and published by Devolver Digital for Android, iOS, and Windows. A game where players can experience the pleasure and reward of restoring landscapes in virtual worlds. The gameplay seamlessly blends real-life conservation techniques with imaginative fictional tools and methods. Players go on a journey, beginning in a barren landscape, with the mission of revitalising it. The calming, meditative gameplay offers users a profound sense of joy and satisfaction as they engage in ecosystem restoration, giving players a genuine sense of agency.
As an inverse to the traditional ‘city-builder’ games, players not only restore landscapes in virtual worlds, but they also have impact in the REAL WORLD. Terra Nil has a partnership with Endangered Wildlife Trust (EWT), a conservation NPO in South African, that focuses on the conservation of threatened species and ecosystems. Free Lives has committed to redirecting 8% of profits to EWT’s conservation efforts, and has already raised US $95,000!
Besides the significant financial contributions to conservation in South Africa, Terra Nil is a viable solution for those grappling with climate anxiety. The blend of cognitive engagement and tangible environmental impact has the potential to alleviate individuals' anxiety in regards to the state of the world, effectively returning a sense of agency through an enjoyable and calming medium.
It’s partnerships like this, between the private sector and the public sector, that really get us excited, and provide a foundation for intersector relationships that benefit people and the planet. We got the opportunity to tell the story of this relationship, and capture both the unique aspects of Terra Nil, as well as EWT. Watch the film below!
Documenting the inspiring EWT experts doing the hard work in the field, and the exceptional creative team from Free Lives who have created a world through Terra Nil that is so much more than a game was so much fun!
Could games offer a remedy for climate anxiety?
While the answer to this question may remain indefinite, there is a comforting certainty that games like Terra Nil might hold the promise of providing relief. According to the American Psychological Association appropriately designed games may have mental health benefits. Terra Nil is an impact driven game purposefully crafted with a clear mission: to drive positive impact.
In an age where climate anxiety is on the rise, these games serve as both a therapeutic outlet and an educational medium. The existence of such games emphasise the importance of diversifying tools for mental well-being and creating opportunities for individuals to channel their concerns into meaningful action.
The innovative combination of engaging gameplay and a strong focus on environmental restoration can offer players a sense of empowerment. Through such games, players can actively participate in ecological restoration, fostering a tangible connection to the planet's well-being. Games like Terra Nil can contribute to raising awareness about environmental issues and inspire real-world action. The partnership between Free Lives and EWT being a great example.
Empowerment through action and the Terra Nil game
Much like the gameplay in Terra Nil, empowerment through action in the fight against climate change can be a transformative experience. The game's immersive experience of restoring ecosystems mirrors the real-world potential for individuals to make a positive impact. In Terra Nil, players are tasked with rebuilding ecosystems, instilling a deep sense of accomplishment. In the real world, taking meaningful action, whether through conscious lifestyle choices or active involvement in environmental projects, empowers individuals to feel like they are making an impact. This sentiment is what alleviates climate anxiety, the sense that you have played a part in effecting change.
An important component of empowerment through action is fostering collective action through collaboration and community building. In recent years, it has become increasingly evident that the gaming industry has evolved into a thriving community-centred ecosystem. The Terra Nil game, with its innovative gameplay and eco-conscious themes, has the potential to inspire its community of players to not only enjoy the game but also actively engage in the global conservation movement. This combination of gaming and environmental awareness is important because it encourages more people to join the efforts to protect our planet.
Climate Change is here to stay, and so many of us often feel quite hopeless. I personally think about climate change at least three times a day - which can be quite exhausting! The toll of these anxieties is high, and finding new ways to feel empowered and at least pretend that I have some agency in the situation is super useful. What I love about Terra Nil, is that the concept is so simple, but making the player feel more relaxed, and giving them little hits of dopamine when they restore a landscape is a brilliant way not only to reduce anxieties, but also to promote environmentally positive behaviours. With the added bonus of your virtual playing having a real-world impact for conservation. I’m not a gamer myself, but I have to admit that playing Terra Nil got me hooked for quite a while!
As Terra Nil and similar initiatives continue to bridge the gap between the virtual and the tangible, they not only alleviate climate anxiety but also inspire a collective movement towards a more balanced world. With each action, large or small, we become agents of change, contributing to a brighter future for both ourselves and the planet. The Terra Nil game is a testament to the capacity of innovative, purpose-driven gaming to not only impact individuals but also to create ripples of change that have a positive and lasting effect on our world.
Download here to play the game! OR If you have a Netflix Games Account you can find it there.
News From ReWild:
Jay and Ben were filming their first film for the Plant The Seed - getting creative in filming how us consumers can manage our PET plastic. Keep your eyes peeled for some entertaining content that could have you falling off your chair.
We have our ReWild Summer Sessions coming up in two weeks - where we will be doing team building activities - like deep time nature walks, alien clearing, drawing, yoga and fun in the sun! Along with a celebration and assessment of our year to see how we can keep magnifying our impact.
Most importantly, to our favourite species - THE BOKKE - we wish you luck for the final this Saturday. We are your biggest fans!
Wild Regards,
Team ReWild Africa