Video games have become a cultural phenomenon that transcends age, gender, ethnicity and even religion. Globally, over 3 billion people play video games. With its various genres, including role-playing games, first-person shooters, multiplayer battle royales and fighting games, video games have become entertainment’s most popular and financially rewarding sector of all time, and shows no signs of decreasing.
Many deride what they see as the destruction of young minds to violence, or the addiction to playing where academic performance shows deep decline and where true social interaction is forgotten. The lack of physical and mental wellbeing leading to laziness, obesity and even depression is also attributed to gaming.
Alternatively, there are those that see inherent benefits to playing video games and which ultimately have led to their immense popularity. They are addictingly entertaining. Benefits include improved cognitive functions, problem-solving skills and the use of logic, hand-to-eye coordination, faster and more accurate decision-making, an improved eye for details and yes, controversially, social activity and teamwork.
The history of video games hails back to the 1950s, but the craze started in the 1970s and 1980s when iconic games like Pong and Space Invaders hit the market. With the development of personal computers and gaming consoles like Xbox and PlayStation in the 1980s and 1990s, this led to the rise of popular games like Tetris, Mario, Sonic the Hedgehog, and The Legend of Zelda. These games led the foundation for the diversity we see today.
Here are seven popular video games for you to check out.
Call of Duty: This is the Grand-Daddy of war games, with its first entry by Activism in 2003. It has a huge fan base and offers a more adult-friendly experience. It is a first-person, shooter game simulating the infantry and combined arms warfare of World War II. Over the years it remains one of the most sought-after games. The next title, Call of Duty: Modern Warfare III, will be released on November 10, 2023.
Fortnite: First developed by Epic Games in 2017, Fortnite is a battle royale game known for its vibrant graphics and unique building mechanics. With a captivated, worldwide audience, it keeps them interested by providing frequent updates and crossover events featuring popular culture icons. In this free-to-play series, 100 players fight to be the last person standing, or a tower defense-shooter fights off zombie-like creatures, or finally, players are given complete freedom to create worlds and battle arenas.
Minecraft: Created by Markus Persson, “Minecraft is an open-world, sandbox-style action-adventure video game that allows you to build and destroy to your heart’s content. Its enthralling story mode stars Jesse and his/her mates as they journey to vanquish the Wither Storm.”
This block-based builder game has endless exploration, survival and creativity possibilities.
Grand Theft Auto V: This is an action-adventure video game released in 2013 by Rockstar Games. In the GTA adventure game, you can play as a criminal, committing heists and evading government and police officials. Players have the freedom to get around on foot or in a vehicle of their choice. It’s the fastest-selling entertainment product in history, grossing approximately $800 million on its first day and $1 billion within the first three days of sales. It may only be surpassed by GTA VI, when it arrives.
Tom Clancy’s Rainbow Six Siege
This online tactical shooter game was developed and published by Ubisoft Montreal in 2015. As a player, you take control of either an attacker or a defender in different gameplay modes, like defusing a bomb or rescuing a hostage and there are some short missions that you can play on your own. In 2018, Rainbow Six Siege won the “Esports Title of the Year,” for professional, competitive level gaming.
Super Smash Bros. Ultimate: This fighting game features the largest roster of video game characters ever assembled. In a titanic showdown, every character has their own strengths and weaknesses. Each player aims to knock their opponents off the stage by making more powerful moves than others. It is a big favourite in the multiplayer format.
Red Dead Redemption 2: This action-adventure style game was developed and published by Rockstar Games. The game is a created version of the Western, Midwest and Southern United States, set in 1899. Outlaw Arthur Morgan must try and handle the destruction of the Wild West while under pressure from the government and separate rival gangs. Features of the game include shooting, hunting, horse riding and heists.
The allure of video games is their universal appeal which transcends age, gender, and culture. Very young children, teenagers, adults, and even seniors have all found enjoyment in this activity. “Their universal appeal, emphasis on teamwork, and potential for both positive and negative impacts make them a fascinating and multifaceted form of entertainment.”
As technology advances, more exciting experiences will emerge, shaping the future of video games for generations to come. Play responsibly!//
Janet Bennett-Cox | Contributing Writer
