How video games bring people together

Level up

What do video games mean to you? There are so many different games, different consoles and various approaches to how we can all connect.

Here, we will focus on how video games can promote inclusion and foster connectivity amongst students. Playing games isn’t just about levelling up or beating a boss. It’s also about accomplishing tasks and reducing stress.

Take the time to game mode and hack yourself to victory.

Why do students play video games?

A white and black PS5 controller with its circle, square, triangle, and X buttons being highlighted. — *Via GIPHY*

Video games are timeless! The sound you hear when your console boots up lets you know that you’re in for an adventure. Games like Forza Horizon 5, Fortnite, Mario Kart 8 Deluxe and Minecraft are extremely popular, but not necessarily for the reason one might think.

The reason these particular games resonate with us is that they build community through a combination of teamwork and competition.

The balance between teamwork and competition is also an analogy for how students interact in class. Sometimes we want to win and to get the highest grade on a particular test. At other times, it means working together to achieve a common goal and winning together.

Just like a video game!

Connect and engage

A hand holds a black Xbox controller in front of various video game scenes. — *Via GIPHY*

Another way students can engage is by connecting through wireless gaming! This allows you to play with others without being in the same physical space. You can learn from one another both on and off campus.

The language of learning is universal, and playfulness is a great tool to build skills pertaining to negotiation, connectivity and healthy disagreements.

Disagreeability isn’t always a bad thing, but knowing how to resolve disputes with our words is a skill that transfers not only to the classroom but ultimately to the workplace. The mashing of buttons and the toggling of controllers is how we communicate our feelings.

Keep your foot on the pedal

Animated pastel-coloured Nintendo Switch with detachable controllers against a light blue background. — *Via GIPHY*

Make new friends and try new skills! The gaming community isn’t exclusive to one faculty. You might run into someone on campus you wouldn’t ordinarily talk to, but notice they have a certain picture of their favourite Pokémon on their shirt, for instance. You might like the same thing! Why not reach out to them? Perhaps a playdate is just the thing to get you out of your shell!

There is also a benefit that isn’t always talked about. Many games help with cognition, particularly games where you are forced to think, make choices, solve puzzles, riddles and outmaneuver your buddy who always beats you at racing.

Gaming, at its heart, is about learning. Learning is about growth. Growth leads to new tools which you can apply in your own life.

Just remember to brake

A computer interior with colorful RGB lighting illuminating the components. — *Via GIPHY*

Conflict resolution is such an important tool in life. How we choose to accept defeat in the gaming world can help shape and mould us. That boss you can’t quite clear? That level that seems to be far too challenging? They don’t always have to be a reason to quit.

Keep trying, but give yourself time to reflect on why it is we play video games. That feeling of accomplishment that you get when you finally finish a game can give you internal validation. This is a great tool to have, and dealing with feelings of frustration and anger is perfectly normal. In fact, it’s healthy.

How we choose to channel that anger and frustration is important. Challenging yourself in a safe environment will lead to more games, more fun and more challenges! Lose graciously! You can always get them next game.

The game of life

Black background with the word "START" in bold, glitchy white pixelated text. — *Via GIPHY*

So, are you interested in finding like-minded people who want to connect? Check out the Humber Gaming Club. This club is a place that both casual and competitive gamers can enjoy without judgment, and more importantly, make connections!

Also, check out the Game Zone area at Humber North Campus, located on the second floor of the H building.

My favourite game and console growing up was Starcraft, on PC. It’s a sci-fi, real-time strategy game, featuring challenging single-player missions and fast-paced multiplayer matches.

Many adventures were had and many friends were made! This is the true purpose of gaming: to build community and connectivity, whatever game you decide on. So, stay in and play the game of life!

Feature image courtesy of Branden Skeli via Unsplash.

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