Week three of the lockdown has been an odd one. Last week, I discussed how video games, especially online games, can fill a social gap with players playing with their friends and still being able to have some sort of social interaction. Although video games are still filling that void, this past week proved a little different.
Less Games
Despite some games getting major updates (it’s amazing that devs are stilling delivering content even while working from home), I found myself spending less time on my Xbox than in previous weeks.
Video games was all that I was doing during the first two weeks, which already feels like a lifetime ago. I woke up early in the morning and played till late at night without doing much else, which I admit is very unhealthy.
This past week saw me working on my novels more as well reading more. I’m also looking after some stray kittens and their mommy that appeared on my farm. People all over the internet are feeling that quarantine has hit them hard with feelings of loneliness and boredom. But to be honest, between working on my books, reading and the kittens, I’ve had less time for games.
Keeping Busy
I doubt this whole ordeal is going to blow over anytime soon and it is unfortunate that not everyone has access to video games but I do think keeping the mind busy is key to getting through isolation.
Whether it is reading, video games, mobile games, board games, toys, drawing, writing, working out or talking to those that are around us, we need to keep our minds busy during this time. Now that video games aren’t consuming my entire day, I intend to try things that I usually don’t have time for.
The phrase “too much of a good thing is a bad thing” and my first two weeks spent playing more video games than I could handle has proven that point. I still play but just not as much. Maybe this lockdown can be used by many for some serious self-reflection so that we may come out better as people and not just as better gamers.
