Why Gamers Are Accepted As a Valid Hobby
Gamers are people who play any kind of game, whether it’s on a console (like Xbox, PlayStation, Wii/Wii U or Nintendo Switch) or on a computer. They can be old or young, and they don’t have to join a clique or prove their skills in order to call themselves a gamer. Those who have been gamers for a long time, however, can be expected to have strong opinions about their favorite games and a passion for discussing them with others. This passion can occasionally lead to gate-keeping from other gamers who think someone isn’t a “true gamer.” However, most gaming communities are diverse and welcoming, and any harassment should be reported to a moderator or administrator.
Many gamers enjoy competing against other players, either online or in person. This competition is often called eSports, and it’s a growing industry with professional teams and competitions. Competitive video games require hand-eye coordination, fast reflexes, quick decision making and strategy. Some gamers put in countless hours to improve their skills and become better competitors.
The competitive aspect of gaming also appeals to many young adults. Some gamers even make a living from it, streaming their gameplay for viewers on sites like Twitch and YouTube. Tyler “Ninja” Blevins, for example, has earned more than $17 million in 2019 alone by playing Fortnite and has multiple sponsorship deals.
Another reason why gaming has become more accepted as a valid hobby is because of the social and creative aspects that come with it. Video games can be played alone or with other players, and the resulting conversations and strategies can be quite fascinating. In addition, some games are designed to be more like puzzles than the usual shooter or adventure fare, and this type of problem solving can be a good way to practice for real-life challenges.
While some gamers might suffer from an addiction to gaming, most people who play video games do so on a recreational basis. If you have a loved one who appears to be struggling with an addiction, it’s important to be understanding and supportive. It’s important to note that there are many different reasons why people become addicted to gaming, and it can be a symptom of something much more serious. Talking with your loved one about their addiction can help you gain a better understanding of their situation and help them get back on track. The word “gamer” comes from the name of a fanzine published by a group of Humanities graduate students in the ’90s. The group wanted to find new words that could describe the unique experience of playing video games. The six words they settled on were “play, immersion/interactivity, avatar, power/control and pedagogy.” These words are still used in modern gaming studies to explore the ways that video games shape and inspire their players.
