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Evaluate the effects of Nintendo Switch exergaming on depressive symptoms, anxiety, and sleep quality in adults with subthreshold depression.

June 7, 2026JMIR Serious GamesOpen Access

Nintendo Switch–Based Exergaming for Subthreshold Depression: Mixed Methods Randomized Controlled Trial

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Randomized trial evaluates Nintendo Switch exergaming effects on depressive symptoms in adults, suggesting effective mental health support.

Evaluate the effects of Nintendo Switch exergaming on depressive symptoms, anxiety, and sleep quality in adults with subthreshold depression.
Randomized controlled trial with 84 adults, comparing an 8-week exergaming intervention to a control group.
Participants assessed at baseline, postintervention, and follow-up using generalized estimating equations.
Semistructured interviews conducted with a subsample to explore participant experiences.
Intervention group showed greater reductions in depressive symptoms at all time points (T1: β =−4.07, P < .001; T2: β =−4.29, P < .001; T3: β =−3.81, P < .001).
Significant improvements in sleep quality (T1: β =−2.98, P < .001; T2: β =−2.19, P = .002; T3: β =−2.45, P < .001) and anxiety (T1: β =−2.60, P = .02; T3: β =−2.38, P = .04).
Qualitative findings supported quantitative results, indicating participant engagement and benefits from the intervention.

Huang et al. (2026) studied this question.

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Randomized trial evaluates Nintendo Switch exergaming effects on depressive symptoms in adults, suggesting effective mental health support.