Over time, the games we play can change how we think and what we're capable of. And it's easy to maximize the benefits so the changes are positive.

Scientists have demonstrated that dramatic, positive changes can occur in our lives as a direct result of facing an extreme challenge - whether it's coping with a serious illness, daring to quit smoking, or dealing with depression. Researchers call this 'post-traumatic growth.'

You can't play the same game every day for years. New games are key.

Games are unnecessary obstacles we volunteer to tackle.

When we play a game, we tackle tough challenges with more creativity, more determination, more optimism, and we're more likely to reach out to others for help.

My goal for the next decade is to try to make it as easy to save the world in real life as it is to save the world in online games.

There is no problem that doesn't have some underlying need for more optimism, stamina, resilience and collaboration. And games are, I believe, the best platform we have for providing that.