A new study has confirmed that video game avatars can have huge mental health benefits for trans and nonbinary people. While some games offer more benefits than others and there are often limitations, the study found that video games can provide a safe space for people to explore their gender identity.

“Findings highlight avatar customization as a unique mechanism for exploring, expressing, and affirming gender identity for TGD [trans and gender diverse] players with positive impact on wellbeing,” the researchers said. “Participants reported reduced gender dysphoria and increased gender euphoria when avatars aligned with their gender identity and desired expression.”

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The project, conducted by researchers at the University of Nottingham, reviewed 14 empirical studies conducted since 2013. This type of research offers the opportunity to analyze a range of data and draw more comprehensive conclusions.

The researchers noted two facets of the video game experience that can enhance the potential for gender exploration and euphoria. The first is higher levels of customization, where different physical effects can be achieved. This is particularly true in narrative games with greater role-playing components, which can be more immersive and allow people to react to the player-designed character more directly. The other central benefit for TGD folks is having a space for other players online to affirm their gender based on their in-game avatar.

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Some of the limitations stemmed from a lack of customization options or a game’s failure to provide nonbinary gender options.

On the whole, the study found that video games are safer environments for people to explore possible gender identities without the risks that come with doing so in the physical world.

The results of this study no doubt won’t surprise some trans and nonbinary people who have found gender euphoria through video games. Some researchers are already working on immersive virtual reality experiences tailored for exploring your gender identity.

“When people are questioning their gender, digital ways to explore different appearances can be extremely important,” Oliver Haimson, author of Trans Technologies, told LGBTQ Nation. “Games often provide highly customizable avatars, which can help people both in exploring how they might want to look in the future. Beyond realistic portrayals, gaming avatars can also be a way to try on fantastical options that may not be physically possible but are still fun and important ways of thinking about gender.”

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