Video games tested as depression treatment in large study

NCT ID NCT05426265

First seen Jun 24, 2026 · Last updated Jun 27, 2026 · Updated 1 time

Summary

This study tested whether playing specially designed video games (MEL-T01 and MEL-S01) for 12 weeks could reduce depression symptoms in adults with major depressive disorder. Over 1000 participants were assigned to either the game therapy or usual care. The main goal was to see if depression scores improved more with the games.

What this could mean

Our plain-language read of the trial. This is informational only — not medical advice or a prediction.

Active substance

MEL-T01 and MEL-S01 (game-based digital therapy software devices)

What this could lead to

If it works, this could offer a new, engaging way to help ease depression symptoms without medication.

What could go wrong

This is a completed study, but results are not yet widely confirmed. The effect may be small or not better than usual care. Digital games may not work for everyone with depression.

Disclaimer Read more

This is a summary of the original study . Summaries may miss details or leave out important information. Before applying or accepting participation, make sure you have read and understood the full study. Curemydisease.com takes no responsibility whatsoever for anything missed, misunderstood, or acted upon as a result of our summary — we know it does not capture everything.

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Conditions

The condition(s) this trial relates to.

Depression major depressive disorder

As listed by the trial registrant

The condition terms exactly as the trial's registrant entered them.

Contacts and locations

Locations

  • Aalto University (TMS)

    Espoo, Uusimaa, 02150, Finland

  • Aalto University, Department of Neuroscience and Biomedical Engineering

    Espoo, Uusimaa, 02150, Finland

  • Helsinki University Hospital BioMag laboratory

    Helsinki, Uusimaa, 00029, Finland

  • Helsinki University Hospital, Psychiatry

    Helsinki, Uusimaa, 00014, Finland

  • Turku University Hospital

    Turku, Southwest Finland, 20521, Finland

  • University of Helsinki Neuroscience Center (MEG, MRI)

    Helsinki, Uusimaa, Finland