Cathartic - Games

In gaming, 'Cathartic' describes experiences that provide emotional release through gameplay mechanics. It often involves overcoming challenges, expressing suppressed feelings, or resolving conflicts in a safe virtual space. Common design elements include combat systems that channel frustration, narrative choices that mirror personal struggles, or sandbox environments for creative expression. This concept transforms play into a therapeutic tool, allowing players to process emotions like anger, grief, or anxiety through interactive metaphors. Games achieve catharsis not through grand narratives, but through moment-to-moment actions that resonate with human vulnerability.