London (CNN) Playing video games may improve your mental health and make you happier, according to a scientific study that used industry data from gaming companies to analyze players' wellbeing. The research by the University of Oxford analyzed the effects of playing two popular video games: Nintendo's Animal Crossing: New Horizons " and Electronic Arts' "Plants vs Zombies: Battle for Neighborville." It found that time spent playing the games was associated with players reporting that they felt happier. "In fact, play can be an activity that relates positively to people's mental health -- and regulating video games could withhold those benefits from players." The approach marked the first time that developers have shared their own data with academics for a major study on the impact of video games.

Source: CNN November 16, 2020 16:07 UTC