I was asked recently about hangout spots in Orlando that may appeal to gamers, so it's the perfect opportunity to recommend some and turn up the in-person interaction with fellow gamers.
One location that immediately comes to mind is... The Pinball Palace at Dezerland. This location has a lounge where you can kick it with friends and play various games on Playstation, Xbox, Nintendo, retro consoles, and ofcourse... pinball + Pool! This lounge also has a bar with an assortment of drinks. Outside of couch co-op games, I'd probably go and play pinball or pool. https://pinballatdezerland.com/
Dezerland is near the corner of International Drive & Oak Ridge Road (It's directly across the street from McDonalds, and the word 'Dezerland' are in huge letters). *There is also full arcade just past the bowling area at Dezerland as well.
Dezerland Park Orlando 5250 International Dr, Orlando (FL) 32819
Player 1 Video Game Bar is similar to The Pinball Palace, but you have a lot more drinks + snack options, which some have a game theme to them.
Snacks are limited. The current options are Boneless Chocobo Tenders, Itsa-me, Mario! Mozzarella Sticks, and Raph's Pizza Pockets. These prices are reasonable for the snacks, especially when compared to the sodas, which are $6.00 per bottle (yikes). https://player1orlando.com/
Player 1 Video Game Bar 8562 Palm Pkwy, Orlando (FL) 32836
Gods & Monsters is a comic book shop that serves drinks in it's Fallout themed "Vault 5421" bar (featuring games like free Joystick arcade tables). It has all sorts of figurines, the atmosphere feels like the perfect after party location once Comic-Con comes to a close. Which is crazy because the Orlando Toy & Comic-Con is going on right now! I can't confirm if they have food or not (in the vault). https://godmonsters.com/
Gods & Monsters 5421 International Drive, Orlando (FL) 32819
Quickly Boba N Snow isn't a place with video games, but... this Asian Fusion restaurant shows gamers, and anime fans a lot of love. Gamers will actually take their Nintendo Switch systems to this restaurant to chill, chat, game, and grub. You can really get your grub on here, and the prices are reasonable. Those Korean corn dogs are next on my list, we would get them here and there from a new place near by (Mochinut), but... you can basically get two for the price of one (because Quickly's Korean corndogs are $4 compared to $7.50). https://www.yelp.com/biz/quickly-boba-n-snow-orlando
Quickly Boba N Snow 3214 E Colonial Dr, Orlando (FL) 32803
While these are options you may be interested in checking out, there are other game/card related shops you can meet at if you don't plan to lounge. Also, you can go to a number of places and turn it into a hangout spot for gamers, because it all boils down to where a number of gamers choose to frequent. Seek places with a great option for lounging, good food at a reasonable price, and keep it respectful so that the owners appreciate the constant presence of gamers. They might even be gamers themselves.
Are you feeling guilty about spending free time playing video games instead of doing something else that is allegedly more productive or culturally valuable? Perhaps someone has made you feel inadequate or guilty about your hobby... as if theirs is superior. This article posits that activities that bring you joy and relaxation are actually worth your time, no matter what form that comes in (unless they're doing harm to someone).
In the grand scheme of things, we all should be pursuing things that bring us joy and fulfillment or... what are we doing that puts a smile on our face? If video games do that, then there's nothing inherently wrong with playing them - same as any other hobby that brings you happiness (again, unless it's doing harm to someone). In fact, studies have shown that playing video games can have cognitive benefits, including improving strategic thinking, hand-eye coordination, and problem-solving skills. It can also serve as an outlet for stress relief and relaxation as mentioned in the past. You aren't making a cyborg to cause havoc in the real world... you're gaming in your free time.
Ask them what they're doing with their free time, and when they respond, give them props... and point out how easy it was for you to do that without judging them.
It's easy to fall into the trap of thinking that one activity is morally superior to another. However, what's important is that we engage in activities that we enjoy, not what other people think is... better (or your enjoyment would be centered around someone else's preferences). We don't like the same things, there's a non-stop debate that I've never participated in regarding best rappers, because preference is preference. I've seen people in heated debates highly upset, and at times I couldn't contain myself as far as asking them a question about preference. It's okay if you like bacon and mushroom pizza, it's okay if I enjoy pepperoni + pineapple pizza (and I prefer an even layer of tomato sauce, because it's dry with a lack thereof). Everyone has their own pursuits - some people love working out, while others prefer reading or cooking. These are all valid ways to spend your free time and bring joy to your life.
Moreover, the idea that video games are for children is outdated, but... it's still an assumption at play. I can't even call it outdated because... adults were gaming since day one. Who played video games first, adults or children? (Come on... be honest.) Current research indicates that the average age of gamers is between 35-44 years old (and that's because that was huge in our time and we've seen the growth), and the number of female gamers is undeniable also. I have to put that in there because there were girls who games right along with us, and my mom got me into console gaming. So when I mention gamers, the assumption should be anyone who games, not just select male gamers with a rig in a basement somewhere. We come in many shapes, sizes, and from various walks of life... and we all enjoy picking up a controller, keyboard and mouse, racewheel, fight stick, flight controls, VR, Steam Deck, Switch, and cellphones get our game on.
The gaming industry has expanded to include a diverse range of genres and platforms that cater to a variety of interests and abilities as well. Therefore, it's vital to stop perpetuating harmful stereotypes that limit who can enjoy video games.
That's because it's an enjoyable hobby for those who enjoy such... which is something presented to those non-gamers who judge gamers, and gamers who judge other gamers (enjoy your free time and leave it at that... you can't get any of that time back).
Fact: You don't have to be a hater all your life.
That being said, excessive gaming can become a habit that interferes with daily life, like any activity that gets taken to an extreme. It's essential to recognize the difference between indulging in a hobby and creating an unhealthy dependency. Some signs of excessive gaming include neglecting responsibilities, withdrawing from social activities, and struggling to control how much time you spend playing. If that is the case, it might be time to take a step back and re-evaluate your gaming habits. Maybe short sessions on weekdays and a time carved out to game during the weekend so that you aren't playing catch up with other tasks (the same applies to other hobbies).
In conclusion, there's no shame in enjoying video games or any other leisure activity that brings you joy. The most important thing is doing what makes you feel good in a responsible manner. Play games... don't play yourself. Whether you prefer spending your time gaming or doing something else, it's essential to keep in mind that there's no universally superior hobby, just different ways to achieve satisfaction and happiness. Don't let anyone else's opinions of your pursuits diminish the value of what makes you happy. Life is too short to waste time denying yourself the simple pleasure of video gaming.
So grind, stay well, and... game on!
For more on the affects of Joy on your body, check out this article by Carrie Murphy. This article was also medically reviewed by... Tim Legg, PhD, PsyD!
Making friends as a gamer can be tricky at times, but it is definitely possible! Here are a few tips:
1. Join gaming communities: Look for online communities related to your favorite games or platforms, and become an active member. This will give you the opportunity to connect with other gamers who share your interests.
2. Attend gaming events: Attend in-person gaming events and conventions to meet other gamers in real life. This can be a great way to make new friends who share your passion for gaming.
3. Play multiplayer games: Playing multiplayer games is a great way to meet new people online. Don't be afraid to reach out to other players and strike up a conversation, but always play it safe.
4. Be a good teammate: If you're playing a multiplayer game, be a good teammate by communicating effectively, playing fair, and supporting your teammates. This can help you build rapport and make new friends.
Remember, making friends takes time and effort, but it can be a rewarding experience. Always be sure to protect yourself, because not everyone has good intentions. Public outings to known game stores and cosplay shops can provide a safe space to interact more with newfound friends in person. If you're under the age of 18, it's best to be accompanied by an adult and leave with the same person. Good luck!
While it is shocking to someone like myself who has played video games for most of my life, I can understand that everyone didn't game... even if it's a jaw dropper.
We received a response yesterday from someone who said that he never played a video game in his life, even as a kid. We do see a twinkle of light though, because he went on to say that he wants to, he just get's anxious... but assumes that game is "expensive as heck".
Oh no no no... he came to the right place, because if you approach gaming the right way, it can be one of the more inexpensive activities you have.
Mobile gaming offers free, freemium, and super cheap games that you can buy for less than $5 bucks.
The free games remain free by way of ads that play or get presented on the top or lower banners of the screen.
Freemium games give you the option to buy in-game currency, powerups, and things of that nature that keep the game "free" to a certain extent, but... even these games will contain ads to prevent them from pressing you for cash.
And... of course you have the paid games, which can be really solid games that you can also enjoy on tablets, and... PC by way of the new Google Play Games for PC (beta). This takes games that you may have invested in on mobile and gives you access on larger screens with the ability to play with game controllers or keyboard + mouse.
Console gives you the ability to play the latest games without the need to worry about updating drivers, ram, graphics cards, and other parts like some do in terms of PC. The games are made around the specs of the hardware, and you can either enjoy the games they have to offer that are the latest and greatest or... go through the digital sales and see what older or even the inexpensive newer releases have to offer.
*Unlike mobile & pc, these systems will bid new releases farewell once they've reached the end of their run and pass the baton off to the next console generation. That said, outside of digital games, you can enjoy games that don't require a download (but...) you will have better luck when it comes to older consoles that don't have any games that require immediate downloads to play them out of the case. I'm not saying that all of today's games do, but older consoles weren't even connected to the internet to the degree that downloads were a factor. You can breathe easier with a Nintendo Switch in this regard, but... when it comes to consoles and online gameplay, once things are shut down for an older console, kiss online gameplay goodbye.
You also have to pay a fee to play online when it comes to console. No shade, but these are facts to keep in mind.
That brings us to PC, the system that keeps the good times rolling from past to present. This platform certainly varies by specs, and may require some understanding of drivers, and installation if you plan to do upgrades. Of course, having friends that game on PC can certainly take the edge off in this regard... if they're big on mods, but you can certainly buy a PC that's ready to roll out of the box. Like consoles though, you will have to keep space in mind in terms of downloads. You will have to do some installs and uninstalls based on the group of games you're into at the time, but... regardless of what they are, if your specs cover them... you can play them. Not only can you play the games of today if your system meets the specs, but it can also play games from decades ago. Want to play a game from 30 years ago? No problem, that's the beauty of PC and if a particular game is one that your content with playing here and there... year after year and there's an audience there (i.e. Counter Strike)... you can do that because the limits aren't there, and neither is the paygate to play online outside of your personal internet connection.
Like console you can use a game controllers, joysticks, fight sticks, race wheels, (in addition to) flight controls, keyboard + mouse, and all that good stuff. The brand doesn't matter, if it compatible with PC (usually) through USB... you can use it.
I also cannot overlook Amazon Luna, which gives you the option of gaming on your TV, PC, Tablet, and Phone... via the internet with no installation of games. They're streamed just like you'd stream a movie through a platform like... Netflix. You can either pay $9.99/month or more to get Ubisoft+ or... enjoy the monthy free games that are avaiable for Prime members. The only catch is that they're swapped out each month, you (usually) don't get to play the same exact games every month.
In terms of games on PC, like with mobile, you can find and enjoy plenty of free-to-play games. Some are better than others, but they don't cost you anything out of pocket to enjoy them. As a newcomer to gaming, I will say this... if you like the game... at least support it here and there because free-to-play games rely on support by way of in-app purchases.
You also have other games that are on sale to snatch up for little to no money, bundles for great games, and even the weekly games we present here that are free snatch up for a certain time before they go back to the price they're normally set at. Nabbing the games presented in the "Top Audiences Last Week" posts would land you at least 4 games per month for free.
Now let's jump into games that could fit your potential preference
If you get anxious when it comes to games, you may be better off playing slower paced games such as point-and-click adventures. This doesn't make point-and-click games bad either, there are some solid immersive stories when it comes to some of these games... but they challenge you by way of solving puzzles and gathering clues. Here are some to give you an idea of the options you have out there:
Other games you may find an interest in... that may deliver a different type of challenge, are SIM Games. There are many types, some are more focused on... life, while others allow you to construct cities, roads, railways, etc.
There are card games as well if you want some variety. From the traditional games like solitaire, to poker, to battle card games... there are plenty to enjoy.
Microsoft Solitaire & Casual Card Games (Click on the Microsoft icon in the lower left corner and type in this game... it's likely pre-installed)
Pinball FX is a game that deliver's what you'd expect in a digital pinball game... and then some. You also get two free pinball tables with this game to enjoy in this free game. Additional tables and pinball passes vary in price.
The list goes on. You can literally enjoy a wealth of games within genre's that don't require an immediate response that makes you feel anxious. This was just me going through games that we have, because variety rocks, but... there is plenty within these genres to fun it up. That said, I hope this was informative to anyone who would like to get into gaming like, Kev.
