With the world in constant flux, people are using their possessions to ground themselves. However, as certain types of physical goods become less commonplace, many are reflecting on what’s still worth owning in a sharing-enabled world. The evolving nature of digital ownership means that people often feel lik...

People are taking a patchwork approach to self-expression to feel like they have control over how their identity is generated. Yet as individual expression becomes more mutable and mistrust in social systems abounds, there’s one place above all that people are seeking integrity and guidance: brands.

Chinese game developer Papergames has launchedLove and Deepspace, an immersive 3D-style dating sim that’s garnering massive hype in China. Its success speaks to how virtual romance games are providing Chinese women with an alternative outlet to assert agency over their intimate lives.

Video game art is beginning to mimic real life, as in-game experience shifts to include positive life milestones that are growing increasingly difficult to achieve for many young Gen Yers and Zers in the real world. How is The Sims shifting real-life concerns to the virtual world?

Based in a Southeast Asian-inspired world,TheSims 4expansion pack 'For Rent' reflects the housing crisis and offers players a chance to be landlords and maintain properties in a virtual reality. As renters grapple with the powerlessness they feel, the game provides a sense of control.

The Growing Together Expansion Pack forThe Sims 4gives players an opportunity to experience societal norms they may be missing. As people grow anxious about achieving life milestones – such as getting married, having kids, or buying a house – they are craving ways to alleviate the pressure.