Long COVID has now affected over 100 million people worldwide. It is a highly debilitating condition with a wide range of symptoms that target multiple organ systems. Unfortunately, knowledge about these symptoms is not as widespread as the condition itself, especially among younger generations. 

The patient network, Long COVID Europe, wanted to effectively communicate these complex symptoms to a younger audience and, at the same time, raise funds for Long COVID research and rehabilitation. 

Long COVID Europe realised that the younger generations spend hours every day watching their favourite gaming streamers. They tune in not only for their wins, but also for their in-game struggles and losses.

Long COVID Europe created Long COVID Mode – real-world symptoms translated into the worlds of gaming. 20 common symptoms were coded into 3 popular games – Elden Ring, Minecraft, The Witcher 3 – to let people experience them through their main characters. Long COVID Mode was shared with influential gamers who broadcasted it to millions of people around the world through charity streams.