Some people still look down their noses at gamers, especially gamers who are over the age of 30.
This has always baffled me. Games are just stories that we control at the end of the day. Movies and books are stories too, but no one mocks people for getting emotionally involved in those.
As someone who has been an avid gamer since childhood, I firmly believe that the joy of video games knows no boundaries of age. In fact, there is even evidence that gaming is good for us adults, especially us parents.
This article explores the multifaceted benefits of gaming for adults, debunks societal misconceptions, and explores why grabbing your controller can enrich your life at any stage.
The Evolution of Gaming
My love affair with video games began in the late 1990s when my parents gifted me an old-school PC and the iconic game, EarthWorm Jim. Little did I know that this simple act would ignite a lifelong passion that would accompany me through the years.
As technology advanced, I witnessed the gaming industry evolve from the humble SNES and original PlayStation to the awe-inspiring consoles of today, offering breathtaking graphics, immersive gameplay, and global multiplayer experiences.
Games like Red Dead Redemption 2, The Witcher 3, and Fortnite have redefined the boundaries of virtual worlds, allowing players to explore vast landscapes, connect with like-minded individuals, and immerse themselves in captivating narratives.
Moreover, the resurgence of classic games through remakes and remasters has enabled me to relive my childhood memories while appreciating the enhancements of modern gaming.
A lot of the best selling games of today have very adult themes and storylines. Some of the characters have more depth and layers than you find in Hollywood films, so why shouldn’t we, as adults, enjoy them like we would a movie?
Shattering Stereotypes and Cognitive Benefits
Despite the enduring misconception that video games are solely for the young, numerous studies have revealed a remarkable shift.
The average age of gamers is steadily increasing, with a significant portion in their 30s and 40s. This trend challenges the notion that gaming is a juvenile pursuit, highlighting its appeal to individuals of all ages.
Older gamers value the mental stimulation, stress relief, and social connections that gaming provides, recognizing its potential to enhance cognitive abilities, problem-solving skills, and hand-eye coordination.
If I’m being honest I probably enjoy being able to talk to my mates while we blow some poor team of teenagers apart on CoD more than improve my hand-eye coordination lol, but it’s a benefit nonetheless.
In a world where mental well-being is of paramount importance, gaming offers an engaging and therapeutic outlet, transcending the boundaries of age. In fact, one of the most remarkable aspects of the gaming community is its diversity.
For example, while there may have been a perception that gaming is predominantly a male-dominated pursuit, the reality is far more inclusive. Gamers of all ages and genders have embraced this hobby, creating a vibrant and welcoming community.
Balancing Responsibilities
While gaming is certainly not just for kids, as fathers we have to strike a balance with other aspects of life. This may be why some people look at adults who game as juvenile or irresponsible, but we would be doing something in our precious little free time, right? So why not game?
We often juggle multiple responsibilities, such as work, family, and personal commitments. Rather than perceiving gaming as a hindrance to these obligations, it can serve as a valuable outlet for stress relief and rejuvenation.
By dedicating designated time for gaming, us adults can recharge our mental and emotional batteries, giving us the energy to tackle our responsibilities with renewed vigor and clarity.
In other words, if we are allowed to enjoy a session on the computer guilt free, we will come away with it better equipped to deal with all the boring grown up stuff.
The Therapeutic Power of Play
At the core of gaming lies the fundamental concept of play, an activity that holds immense therapeutic value for individuals of all ages.
Play has been shown to release feel-good endorphins, reduce stress, and boost overall well-being. In the midst of the COVID-19 pandemic, many adults found solace in gaming, puzzles, and other forms of play, providing a much-needed escape and a means of coping with the challenges of the time.
Embracing play in adulthood can be a powerful tool for maintaining mental and emotional balance, encouraging creativity, and nurturing a sense of joy and wonder in our lives.
By allowing ourselves to engage in playful activities, we tap into a wellspring of resilience and adaptability, essential qualities for navigating the complexities of modern life.
Gaming definitely falls into that category.
Intergenerational Family Connections
Gaming not only transcends age boundaries but also holds the potential to bridge generational gaps and strengthen family bonds.
As adults, we can share our passion for gaming with younger family members. I can’t wait to play Mario Kart with my little boy, for example – he’s not quite old enough but he’s not far off.
You can’t tell me that this won’t be a bonding experience. I would have loved it if my Dad sat down to play computer with me, so if gaming turns out to be something we both enjoy, how wonderful that we will be able to play together.
Engaging in cooperative or competitive gameplay can strengthen bonds with older family members too. Remember to Wii? You could play that with your grandma.
This intergenerational exchange not only enriches personal relationships but also contributes to a more inclusive and tolerant society. Can you imagine a social program where football loving youths and OAPs were encouraged to play Fifa against each other, for example?
I can’t think of many activities that could bring generations together as seamlessly as gaming to be honest.
Gaming is for All Ages
In conclusion, the notion that one can be “too old” to play video games is a misconception that deserves to be challenged. In fact, not just challenged but shot to pieces like an NPC on Rainbow Six.
Gaming is a multifaceted pursuit that offers cognitive benefits, social connections, therapeutic value, and a means of embracing our inner child, regardless of age.
By shattering societal stereotypes and enjoying gaming, we not only enrich our personal lives but also contribute to a more inclusive and understanding society.
So, whether you’re a lifelong gamer or a newcomer to this captivating world, don’t let anyone tell you that your passion is immature. It’s not. So there.