Today we all belong to online communities of some kind, yet gaming is still scrutinized by those who don’t understand the appeal. Some even consider gaming to be associated with mental health issues or addiction. Despite this, plenty of people are playing video games while still living a normal, meaningful, and productive life. Online gaming and lootboxes are popular, and we’ll discuss why this isn’t a problem like some claim.
Gaming is about much more than playing games. It is an opportunity to male friends, it is a community where everyone can feel included. As a result, gaming and geek culture at large are becoming more and more accepted in mainstream culture.
Challenging the perception of gaming addiction
Millions of people are playing video gaming, joining communities, and making friends. Still, some people insist that gaming is unhealthy, dangerous, and addictive. The World Health Organization condemned gaming as an addiction. However, psychologists are now challenging the perception of gaming addiction and criticizing WHO for defining gaming as an addiction.
One of the critiques is that the WHO does not take into account that gaming addiction might be a coping mechanism for people with underlying mental health issues. The misunderstandings surrounding gaming is not a new thing. Ever since people started playing arcade games in the 80s, the media has tried to label gaming as problematic. Gaming leads to violence, gamers have no friends, gaming is only for geeks and so on. But this could not be further from the truth.
A community of geeks
The word ‘geek’ used to be a word bullies would throw at the awkward kid in class that no one wanted to be friends with. But today geeks all over the world are uniting to share their love of geek culture. Whether your passion is movies, video games, or comic books, there is a place for you in the geek community. Playing video games is not anti-social or lazy, it does not make you a loser. It is a lifestyle that you can share with others.
Gaming communities can empower people. It is a haven for people who don’t fit in. As it is becoming increasingly difficult to make friends in real life, people are beginning to wake up to the positive side of gaming culture. It is a place where you are sure to make friends who share your passion and interests. So please – stop trying to demonize gamers for simply enjoying a hobby, making friends and connections, and ultimately having a good time.
Lootboxes are popular and the rise of online casinos
Today the gaming community has grown beyond its own definition. Even online gambling can be considered a form of gaming. Consequently, online casinos have been on the rise in recent years, and this tendency does not seem to slow down any time soon. While lootboxes are popular, online casinos offer a wide range of games that would appeal to the average online gamer.
It is always a thrill to play and there are plenty of people who share the same interest. The popularity of online casinos shows that the future of gaming is diverse and ever evolving. Communities can grow around any form of games. It all comes down to what you are interested in.
This is Niche Culture. In this column, we regularly cover anime, geek culture, and things related to video games. Please leave feedback and let us know if there’s something you want us to cover!
