Five Reasons Why It Is Finally Time To Get Into Gaming
Gaming has long suffered a reputation as something of a niche interest, the general assumption being that gamers are just a bunch of pimple-faced teenage boys playing Call Of Duty in their parents’ basements. Lately, though, that hackneyed stereotype has begun to show its age.
While it’s true that certain game companies still cater to that narrow demographic, the market has expanded greatly over the past five to 10 years and now offers entertainment for a much broader range of tastes. With mobile gaming putting games into far more people’s hands (literally), and free-to-play titles such as Fortnite and League Of Legends removing the usual $60 barrier to entry, it’s never been easier to get started.
And, of course, there’s Covid-19, which has played an unexpected role in bringing video games to a wider audience. A common argument against gaming is that it’s a sedentary hobby; now that we’re no longer allowed to leave the house, that very same argument is being used to promote it.
But if you’re new to gaming, or just haven’t played since you were young, where on Earth should you start? With a choice of three major current-generation consoles from Sony, Microsoft and Nintendo, next-generation consoles arriving at the end of the year, new streaming platforms such as Google’s Stadia service, and of course, the ever-evolving PC, it can be a daunting place – and that’s before you even get started on the games.
To give you a taster, then, we’ve picked out five of our favourite current and upcoming titles. Think of them as your gateway drug to an all-consuming new addiction.