The Student Room Group

Videogames... a waste of time?

My mom always yells at me because I like to play video games, I have been trying to find a precise reason why videogames are useful for my future... HELP!!!

Scroll to see replies

Reply 1
Well what if there's a zombie apocalypse?
Original post by Raen
Well what if there's a zombie apocalypse?


exactly... I can't think of anything
Depends on the types of games... there's a study floating around somewhere that says that gamers (compared to controls) have better spatial awareness and better problem-solving skills... or so I remember. There's also the fact that games can impart messages easily lost in translation in real life. Games allow you to make mistakes with no consequences, to learn and to ultimately grow. (See most story-based multiple choice games, the infamous Undertale, JRPGs...) Games are also a method of escape, pf relaxation. Would your parents rather you sit in front of the TV, brain switched off? Make sure you have a good balance though. If they still complain, just play out of sight.
Reply 4
Original post by Jordan Schmidt
exactly... I can't think of anything


Well, depending on the kind of games you play, video games could help you with some social skills as you're communicating with others in a team and they definitely improves your problem-solving ability. If you play a competitive online game it could help you work well under pressure and maybe help you make quick snap decisions. Maybe your ability to multi-task and perseverance/patience could be improved from them too?
Reply 5
I played games for years from the age of 5, to now, (19) and Im now a 3D artist for video games. My love of games, and my creative interest came together and allowed me to have my dream job of making games. Parents will always say games are bad. And you should focus on school while your there, but sometimes they can be the start of something awesome like it was for me.
You don't need a reason to have a hobby, I doubt you'd get any grief if you were really into opera or something.
Reply 7
Just as much of a waste of time as painting, knitting, watching soaps, films, etc...
Keeps your brain focused and active, can starve of dementia, good enough reason as any.
No... they're a form of escapism much like reading novels are... or some games really get the adrenaline rushing through your whole body much like some sports do... I've formed many strong friendships because we shared the same passion for games, whether we play(ed) the same games or not, there's always a place for conversation.

However, although I am a fairly active gamer myself, you cannot let it disrupt other areas of your life like socialising, work, education or just any other goals and hobbies which you might have.

you don't need a reason for your interests or hobbies... although asking questions is good at times, sometimes you need to know when to stop.... because if you keep asking yourself why you should continue playing games then you'll be asking yourself very philosophical questions very soon like what's even the point of living...
It's a leisurely activity.

If she watches TV then point that out.

If she's a housewife then point that out too. At least you work 9-3, UNPAID.
Does your mother like to watch films, television, read books, spend a lot of time on the internet, etc? It's just another platform for entertaining oneself.
Original post by Jordan Schmidt
My mom always yells at me because I like to play video games, I have been trying to find a precise reason why videogames are useful for my future... HELP!!!


Idk play portal or something. It teaches you physics 'speedy thing goes in speedy thing comes out' :rofl:.
Original post by Jordan Schmidt
My mom always yells at me because I like to play video games, I have been trying to find a precise reason why videogames are useful for my future... HELP!!!


They are not a waste of time, don't believe your mom's word. They are useful to chill out, especially on stressful days; they are an inspiration for yourself and a source for your own creativity. People have to behave like kids sometimes to find good solutions for life later on. And being a kid is possible in playing (games).
(edited 5 years ago)
Original post by sinfonietta
Does your mother like to watch films, television, read books, spend a lot of time on the internet, etc? It's just another platform for entertaining oneself.


Exactly, a good quote I can think of is "Time you enjoy wasting is not wasted time"

also on a side note: Citrus?
Original post by therandomperson
Exactly, a good quote I can think of is "Time you enjoy wasting is not wasted time"

also on a side note: Citrus?


It is indeed Citrus. :yes:
Everything's a waste of time, but you've got to have an outlet, some way of relaxing or you'll burn out. It's not just a work/sleep/repeat system
Playing games can increase focus, critical thinking and problem-solving skills. It also relieves stress (unless you're playing Dark Souls)

I know a 60-year old man still playing video games and it keeps him healthy!
I think a lot of parents just worry that their children are sitting alone in a dark room and will end up with no social skills. However, I believe that gaming is becoming increasingly social. My partner plays games and has a couple of friends who he's met through gaming alone. They talk to each other about everything and are really close, despite having never met, and I know that they've helped each other through some tough times. If I was your mum I wouldn't want you sitting on video games all the time either, as I honestly don't think it's healthy, but it's all about balance. Make sure you're getting your work done, eat proper meals, go out for walks - then by all means spend your spare time on your game. Try and find time to talk to your family too, even if it's just going downstairs to watch TV with them every now and again.
Relaxation is not a waste of time. :nah:

Quick Reply

Latest