Gaming in a Pandemic: How Video Games Helped Us Cope with Isolation
Video games have always been a means of escape, a way to immerse oneself in a different world. But as the world went into lockdown due to the COVID-19 pandemic, they became something more. They became a lifeline, a way to connect, and a means to cope.
A New Form of Connection
As the pandemic hit, more and more people turned to video games as a means of connection. With social distancing measures in place, online gaming platforms provided a much-needed social outlet. Massively multiplayer online games (MMOs) saw a surge in player count. Games like World of Warcraft and Final Fantasy XIV, which already boasted millions of active players, saw their numbers inflate even more. But it wasn’t just MMOs that benefited from the lockdown. Games like Among Us and Fall Guys, designed to be played with friends, also saw a massive increase in popularity.
A Testament to Adaptive Game Design
The increased demand for online multiplayer games also highlighted the adaptability of game designers. Many developers were quick to respond to the sudden influx of players, making changes to their games to accommodate the larger player base. They added new servers, made balance changes, and even introduced new content to keep players engaged. This adaptability shows the resilience of the gaming industry, and its ability to respond to changes in player behavior and demand.
The Therapeutic Value of Games
Games also served as a means of therapy for many people. The repetitive, predictable nature of certain games provided a sense of normalcy in a world that was anything but. Games like Animal Crossing: New Horizons, with its peaceful, idyllic setting and laid-back gameplay, became a calming refuge for many players. The ability to control a virtual world when the real world seemed out of control was therapeutic for many.
Gaming and Community Support
The pandemic also brought out the best in the gaming community. Many streamers hosted charity streams, raising money for COVID-19 relief efforts. Gamers also found innovative ways to show support for each other, hosting virtual gatherings in games like Animal Crossing and Minecraft. These events served as a reminder of the power of games to bring people together, even in the most challenging times.
Looking Forward: The Future of Gaming Post-Pandemic
As we begin to see the light at the end of the tunnel, it’s clear that the gaming industry has been fundamentally changed by the pandemic. With more people turning to games as a means of entertainment and connection, the industry is set to grow even further. The pandemic has also highlighted the therapeutic potential of games, a factor that is likely to influence game design in the future.
The COVID-19 pandemic has shown us the power of video games, not just as a form of entertainment, but as a means of connection, therapy, and community support. As we move forward, it’s clear that games will continue to play an important role in our lives, pandemic or not.
