Goodville introduces AI mental health resource as part of WHO partnership

Mobile farming sim Goodville is celebrating the third year of its partnership with the World Health Organization (WHO), and as part of this collaboration, it’s introduced new resources and therapeutic advice for mental health. The biggest addition is Sara, an AI-powered in-game assistant who offers resources and information about mental health based on the WHO’s guidelines.

According to Goodville, players can take interactive tests that have been integrated into gameplay. Sara will assess the information players give her and offer advice and mental health tips in response. Sara is one of multiple assistants in game, all of which offer health-based advice to players. The developers report 2,500 daily interactions with the health assistants.

In an interview with GamesBeat, a spokesperson for Goodville said, “Embedding advice in a game makes it more accessible and interactive. Players interact with Sarah through a series of questions, based on which she provides recommendations. This approach allows players to receive valuable information in a more casual and engaging format, promoting better understanding and application of the advice in real life.”

Andy Pattison, the WHO’s team lead of digital channels, said in a statement, “We welcome efforts by the video game companies, such as Goodville, to encourage their large online communities to take the necessary steps for better health and well-being. We need to continue to reach people with science-based, trustworthy health information where they are, in the palms of their hands.”