Development of a Serious Game for Mental Health: Requirements Analysis via the Delphi Method

Mental health disorders represent a significant global challenge, particularly among young adults. While serious games are emerging as a promising complementary tool for mental health support, their efficacy hinges on a design that deeply integrates the needs of both patients and clinicians. This study aims to identify and synthesize the essential requirements for a serious game designed to support young adults with anxiety and/or depression, using the Delphi method. A qualitative and exploratory study was conducted with 17 participants (10 patients diagnosed with anxiety and/or depression and seven mental health professionals). Data on desired features, mechanics, and ethical considerations were collected via structured online questionnaires and analyzed using Thematic Content Analysis. The analysis revealed convergence between the two groups on several requirements, including a therapeutic core gameplay loop, a gamified and clinically relevant progress dashboard, a positive reinforcement system, and the importance of a validated, ethical, and safe environment that aligns with patients’ need for a welcoming, non-judgmental space. These findings provide actionable guidelines for the second Delphi round, aimed at achieving quantitative consensus for the subsequent design of the serious game.