Xbox has announced a partnership with sleep and meditation app, Calm to bring the first ever video game themed soundscapes to the platform.
The new soundscapes are out today today with one containing meditative sounds from the waves and birds from Sea of Thieves and the other containing ambient alien sounds of Zeta Halo from Halo Infinite.
These soundscapes are available for Calm Premium members, and to celebrate the release, Xbox is giving Xbox Game Pass Ultimate members three months of Calm Premium for free and then 50% off first year subscriptions (for new members only).
Xbox is also undertaking a number of other mental health initiatives alongside this:
- Xbox Games Studio, The Coalition will donate 1% of net revenue from all Gears of War games and merchandise to organizations working to prevent suicide and combat loneliness. This year, players can purchase the 2022 Benefit Tee from the Xbox Gear Shop, with all proceeds benefiting Crisis Text Line.
- Microsoft Rewards members can earn and donate points to organizations supporting mental wellness, including Crisis Text Line, The Games and Online Harassment Hotline (Feminist Frequency), and Take This.
- Xbox have also carefully curated a selection of games from Xbox Game Pass that provide an escape from the trials of life and help players connect with their unique identities, including Persona 5 Royal, Hellblade: Senua’s Sacrifice, Disney Dreamlight Valley, Unpacking, and Stardew Valley.
- Xbox Ambassadors will share their personal perspective on the role that gaming has played in their mental wellness journey to help support others.
- Throughout the month of December, the Xbox Plays team will host Twitch Takeovers with guest streamers to share their favorite feel-good games, stress relief tips and more.
