Two calming video game soundscapes are the goal of the current collaboration between Microsoft's Xbox and the cult-favorite meditation app Calm. This partnership is described as "part of a broader push from Xbox into mental health awareness" which makes sense, especially since the brand popularizes various intense and wildly popular combat warfare games like Halo, Grand Theft Auto, and Call of Duty.
The calming video game soundscapes will be available through Calm’s Premium membership tier. To reflect the partnership, Xbox will also offer three free months of Calm Premium and then 50% off for the first year. The first soundscape is inspired by the Sea of Thieves game and it takes listeners "to a ship on the water, surrounded by the whirlwind waves and chattering birds." The second soundscape boasts the "ambient alien sounds" from Halo Infinite.
Calming Video Game Soundscapes
Xbox and Calm are Teaming Up for Two New Game-Themed Soundscapes
Trend Themes
1. Calming Video Game Soundscapes - Opportunity for game developers to partner with mental wellness apps like Calm and offer immersive and therapeutic experiences.
2. Mental Health Awareness in Gaming Industry - Opportunity for gaming companies to champion mental health by creating content that promotes mindfulness, relaxation and emotional regulation.
3. Integration of Ambient Sounds in Wellness Apps - Opportunity for mental wellness apps to integrate ambient sounds, audio experiences and virtual spaces to enhance relaxation and meditation.
Industry Implications
1. Gaming - Gaming studios can now create 'calming game modes' which use soothing and therapeutic sounds to offer a more relaxing gaming experience.
2. Mental Health - Mental wellness apps and platforms now have the opportunity to collaborate with multimedia and entertainment companies to offer immersive therapeutic experiences.
3. Wellness and Spa - Opportunity for spa and wellness centers to integrate ambient audio experiences into their meditation and relaxation treatments.