Gaming Therapy G.O.A.T List

As an occupational therapist and the sole practitioner behind Quest OT, my practice is built around the belief that gaming can be a powerful tool for therapeutic intervention. I recognize gaming as a core occupation for many young people and leverage its potential to facilitate growth and development across various areas. By incorporating carefully selected co-op games into my therapy sessions, I've witnessed incredible progress in building capacity for executive function, fine and gross motor skills, emotional regulation, managing screen time, transitions and self-care, with immense carryover to other occupations.

Co-op gaming can target a wide range of therapeutic areas, including:

• Social Skills: Players learn to communicate effectively, negotiate roles, and collaborate towards a shared goal.

• Problem-Solving: Games often present challenges that require players to think critically, strategize, and adapt to changing circumstances.

• Communication: Clear and concise communication is essential for success in most co-op games, promoting both verbal and non-verbal communication skills.

• Fine Motor Skills & Coordination: Many games require precise movements and hand-eye coordination, helping to refine these skills in a fun and engaging way.

• Emotional Regulation: Learning to manage frustration, celebrate successes, manage transitions and work through challenges as a team helps build emotional resilience.

I've curated a list of my favorite co-op games, each offering unique benefits and catering to diverse interests. These are the GOATs (Greatest Of All Time) in my book:

Adventure & Exploration:

• Minecraft Dungeons: This dungeon crawler simplifies the Minecraft experience with accessible controls and engaging hack-and-slash action. Players work together to defeat mobs, explore diverse environments, and collect loot, fostering teamwork and communication in a fun, fantasy setting.

• Elden Ring Seamless Co-op Mod: For those seeking a greater challenge, the Elden Ring Seamless Co-op Mod transforms the notoriously difficult game into a shared experience. Players must communicate effectively, strategize their approach to combat, and support each other through challenging encounters, building resilience and fostering a strong sense of camaraderie.

• Sea of Thieves: Ahoy, matey! This pirate adventure throws players into a vast open world where they must cooperate to sail their ship, navigate treacherous waters, battle rival pirates, and unearth hidden treasures. Sea of Thieves promotes teamwork, communication, and problem-solving in a captivating and immersive environment.

• Red Dead Online: Step into the Wild West and forge your own path in Red Dead Online. This open-world game offers a wealth of opportunities for cooperative gameplay, including hunting, fishing, completing story missions, and engaging in competitive challenges. Red Dead Online allows players to explore a rich and detailed world, develop their characters, and build relationships with other players.

Creative & Building:

• Minecraft: The undisputed king of sandbox games, Minecraft offers endless possibilities for creative expression and collaborative building. Players can work together to construct magnificent structures, design intricate redstone contraptions, or simply explore the vast and procedurally generated world. Minecraft fosters imagination, problem-solving, and communication in a truly unique and engaging way.

Action & Combat:

• TMNT: Shredder's Revenge: Cowabunga! This classic beat 'em up throws players into the shoes of the Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles as they battle the Foot Clan and other iconic villains. Shredder's Revenge features fast-paced, side-scrolling action that emphasizes teamwork and coordination. Its vibrant visuals and accessible gameplay make it a great choice for players of all ages and skill levels.

• LEGO Star Wars: The Skywalker Saga: This action-adventure game allows players to relive the entire Star Wars saga in LEGO form. With a focus on cooperative gameplay, players can team up to explore iconic locations, solve puzzles, and engage in thrilling lightsaber battles. LEGO Star Wars offers a fun and accessible way to promote teamwork and problem-solving skills while indulging in a beloved franchise.

Problem-Solving & Strategy:

• Phasmophobia: Enter the world of paranormal investigation in this chillingly suspenseful co-op game. Players must work together to gather evidence of ghostly activity, using a variety of tools and techniques. Phasmophobia requires communication, strategic planning, and a healthy dose of courage, making it a great way to build teamwork and problem-solving skills in a unique and engaging context.

• Overcooked 2: Get ready for some kitchen chaos! Overcooked 2 throws players into a series of increasingly challenging kitchens where they must cooperate to prepare and serve dishes under intense pressure. The game demands clear communication, effective delegation of tasks, and the ability to adapt to rapidly changing circumstances. Overcooked 2 is a fun and frantic way to build teamwork, communication, and time management skills.

• Portal 2 Companion Collection: Put your problem-solving skills to the test in this critically acclaimed puzzle game. Players must work together to navigate a series of intricate chambers using portals and other physics-based mechanics. Portal 2 requires communication, spatial reasoning, and a healthy dose of creative thinking, making it a fantastic way to promote teamwork and problem-solving skills in a stimulating and rewarding environment.

A Special Mention: The Therapeutic Power of the Nintendo Switch, Quest OT's Nationwide Reach, and Our Growing Gaming Community

The Nintendo Switch deserves a special shout-out for its portability and versatility in therapeutic settings. Its ability to be packed into a lunchbox-sized travel container has facilitated outstanding therapy sessions in various environments. The Switch's detachable Joy-Con controllers also offer flexible control options, making it accessible to individuals with diverse needs.

At Quest OT, my gaming expertise extends across various platforms, including PlayStation, Nintendo, PC, and Xbox, allowing for maximum inclusivity in my therapy sessions. By offering both in-person and online sessions, I've been able to reach individuals in regional and remote areas across four states in 2024. Quest OT is proud to be a nationwide provider, growing by the week and committed to bringing the power of therapeutic gaming to young people everywhere.

Quest OT fosters a vibrant and growing community of over 20 regular gamers in the community and online with a growing presence on the official Quest OT Discord channel. This platform provides a safe and monitored environment where players can connect, share achievements, discuss gaming strategies, and build friendships with like-minded individuals.

Conclusion:

At Quest OT, I believe that gaming can be a transformative tool for therapeutic intervention. By harnessing the power of co-op play, I can create engaging and effective therapy sessions that empower my clients to develop essential life skills, build confidence, and foster meaningful connections. I encourage fellow OTs to embrace the potential of gaming and witness the positive impact it can have on the lives of young people. Let's continue to explore innovative ways to level up our therapy sessions and unlock the full potential of every individual we serve!