Is Your Love for Video Games Dimming as You Age?

As a kid or teenager, video games were often a significant part of your life. You might have spent hours immersed in the world of your favorite titles, experiencing countless quests and challenges. Fast-forward to your mid-20s, and you've noticed a shift in your interest. Video games now seem so boring. This is a common experience, and there are several factors behind it.

Why Does Video Game Interest Dim With Time?

One of the primary reasons your interest in video games might have diminished over time is exposure and repetition. Over the years, you've likely played numerous games within the same genre, often with similar mechanics. As a result, the initial thrills and innovative experiences that drew you to video games in your younger years can start to feel repetitive and mundane.

Take platformers, for example. While each game may have unique levels or a distinct story, the core gameplay mechanics often remain the same. Even a game like Hollow Knight, which offers a fresh experience, still follows the established formula of platforming and puzzle-solving. This repetition can make the games feel less exciting over time.

The Corporate Approach to Gaming

Another factor behind the diminishing interest in video games is the highly concentrated and corporatized nature of the industry. Big companies prioritize repetitive and profitable formulas over innovative ideas. You might see the same franchises repeated with only minor variations, such as different years of FIFA or variations of Assassin's Creed. These franchises can become monotonous when the core gameplay remains unchanged.

The concentration of the gaming industry also means that indie games or games with unique approaches are often overshadowed by these large corporations. Smaller developers with fresh ideas can offer a breath of fresh air, but they often struggle to compete with the marketing and resources of larger companies. As a result, repeating the same themes and gameplay can become less appealing.

The Impact of Liberal Agendas and Handholding

Another aspect contributing to the boredom of video games is the influence of liberal agendas in the entertainment industry. Games that stray from traditional narratives or feature alternative viewpoints are often heavily critiqued or labeled as divisive. This pressure can make players feel alienated or uncomfortable, leading to a decline in enjoyment. Additionally, many modern games feature a highly guiding narrative, where the player is constantly prompted with directions and expected to follow a specific path. This can make the experience feel less engaging and more like a tutorial.

Exploring New Gaming Experiences

If you're finding video games boring, it might be worth trying games from indie developers or Japanese developers who retain some creativity. For example, FromSoftware's games often offer deep, immersive experiences without handholding, making them a good alternative. Also, revisiting old games from your childhood that you haven't played in a while can bring back nostalgic enjoyment.

Ultimately, the boredom perceived in modern video games can be attributed to the saturation of repetitive gameplay. While core mechanics remain largely the same, the lack of innovation can make even familiar genres feel stale. The potential for meaningfully innovative games to captivate players again lies in the hands of both developers and consumers.

Conclusion

The interest in video games can diminish as we age due to factors like repetitive gameplay, corporate dominance, and liberal agendas. However, not all games are created equal. Exploring indie games, Japanese-developed titles, and classics from your past can help recapture the excitement you felt in your younger years. As the gaming industry evolves, innovative and exciting new titles will continue to emerge, offering a fresh perspective and new experiences.