ABOUT

Cogshel is a 2D single-player iOS game that has been developed to provide a therapeutic experience for children who are feeling nervous or overwhelmed. Inspired by successful meditative and cognitive behavioural therapy techniques, activities featured in the gameplay provide users with an opportunity to de-stress and distract from negative thoughts, feelings and behaviours. 

Cogshel uses a pet simulator genre, reinforcing the core design aim to create a relaxing gameplay loop for players, as nurturing and caring for an animal has been proven to lower the levels of cortisol (also known as the “stress hormone”) and stimulate positive neurotransmitters such as oxytocin, serotonin and dopamine. Alongside this, a cool-toned watercolour art style has been used to produce a calming environment, influenced by the psychological and well-being benefits of being outdoors in nature.

Children’s mental health is often overlooked, and I hope Cogshel will help young kids to feel represented and supported during difficult times.

Link to Semester One Notion page here.
Link to further documentation of the development process for Cogshel here.