The gaming industry has grown exponentially and the leading cause of this development is the provision of a community of gamers. Even if a player spends hours together in front of the screen, he/she is aware of the presence of other individuals in the game with them. Gaming is no longer an isolated task or hobby. Many gamers develop long-lasting friendships with others through the video games that they play. The sense of community actually helps them find like-minded people from different parts of the world. Especially with Gen Z, the art of building a community around video games has become a social lifeline.
As we have stepped into an age where social distancing has become normal and people work from home, isolation can cause serious health problems. With the use of a community through video games, players can easily formulate social capital and friendships that help them sail through the toughest times. Several young adults travel for work or have to step out of their respective cities or even countries to find the right job or career opportunities for them. Online Gaming helps them have a tether to hold on to wherever they may go and indulge in a hobby that is entertaining and challenging as well.
Apart from this, it was also noted that many video games or online games assist individuals in keeping in touch with friends and family members. People from different locations can join one room, chat, and communicate while they enjoy a mutually like game. Since the pandemic, the number of people indulging in gaming has increased multifold. Records have been broken on the number of downloads and online participation of people in countries like the US. It was noted that 4 out of 5 individuals were playing games and have regularly been indulging in different video games since the pandemic.
Although the concept of socialization through video games is fairly new for many people, it is definitely an old concept for gamers. Several gamers claim that the real relationships found by them were through the gaming sessions that they had with others. Studies earlier claimed that gaming was only done by people who liked to be isolated. However, with the new developments of socialization of gamers through these channels have changed the thought process of the people. Majority of the people in fact like to play multiplayer games through which they can have real-time communication as well.
Lastly, it is important to note that the online gaming world has also helped many people form romantic relationships. People must find individuals for relationships who have the same interests these days. With online gaming, it becomes easier for people to be confident and share their thoughts in a safe environment. Many gamers have pointed out that socializing through gaming has helped them change their lives altogether and find professional and personal meaning. There are several games in which customization of the environment and the character can also be done through which an individual can feel closer to the game.
