Wednesday, February 10, 2016

Why Should I be a Gamer?

        The better question would be: Why Not? There are so many reasons to get in to the gaming community, whether it be video games or traditional tabletop or board gaming, that it's much easier to explain why someone shouldn't become a gamer. With these simple tips, you can make a decision that can, and will, change your life.

Gaming is a Communal Experience
What, you say? Isn't gaming for lonely people who can't fit in with normal society? Of course not! Like any human experience, gaming is about the social experience; developing camaraderie through the sharing of a mutual passion or interest; making lasting bonds with fellow gamers for years to come. Even gamers who partake in single-player experiences find themselves in discussions with other, like-minded individuals regarding their favorite activities, debating on methods of play, professing their love of characters and story lines, etc. Ultimately, if you absolutely abhor interacting with others, then gaming certainly isn't for you.

Gaming can Change your Perspective
Gamers are regularly challenged with completing tasks in manners that are unconventional to say the least. Puzzle solutions, battle tactics, logic progression: all are constantly being improved upon to achieve new, more fulfilling results. Sometimes, individuals purposely change the rules of the game they're playing (either by modding or using self imposed restrictions) to create a new challenge in a game they may have played dozens of times. Changing one's ideals is difficult enough, but gamers often find ways to change their perspectives and approach concepts in new, exciting ways. All of this done in the name of fun. If you can't find the will or desire to adapt your mind to new ways of thinking, then gaming certainly isn't for you.

Gaming is a Great Stress Reliever
Ever have a bad day and just want to blow off some steam? As a gamer, an outlet is always available. Playing games exercises the mind (as pointed out previously) offering a distraction from the difficulties of the "real" world. Some gamers partake in certain activities to help work out the aggressions they've built up over the course of their day/week. There are even direct psychological benefits: when engaging in activity that is fun or pleasurable (like playing games) your body releases Endorphins which have positive effects on mood, memory, and health. Maybe you're one of those folks who prefers to remain in a state of high stress and tension. If so, gaming may not be for you.

              So there you have it: Three potential reasons not to get in to the gaming culture. From here on out, it's all up to you. Do you turn your head and walk away? Or do you take the dive so I can show you how deep this pool is?