Okay, so you are not one of those who is particularly attracted to being a virtual character. The character in the game is just that and nothing more. So what else is attractive about video games. Well like almost everything else on the internet, most MMORPGs create highly social and interactive environments for their users. In fact, MMORPGs encourage players to play with other people. The rewards in game are much greater to those who accomplish quests with larger groups of people. There aren't many things that bring people together more then sharing a common goal or interest.
MMORPGs give people a chance to meet others from all over the world. However they are different from those social networking sites, in that all these player already share a common interest, the game itself. Instantly two or more people have a rich conversation topic and shared interest that brings them together. In addition to that, the shared feelings of striving for a common goal, within the game, also ties random players together in more subtle ways. People can learn about each other through the ways they choose to play the games and demonstrate their skill. Players are also free from the social constraints of physical appearance since your appearance in the game does not in anyway resemble your real appearance.
Once past the intial conversation topic of the game, players have a tendency to discuss their real lives with their in game friends. I have heard numerous stories from fellow gamers where they have met people in the game who they confided in and they take that confidence into the real world. Some couples have met in the game and gotten married in real life. Some people enjoy the opportunity the game allows them communicate with so many different people across the world.
The public has this general stereotype that gamers are for the most parted socially truncated and inept at communicating with people, thus they must turn to the game to hide themselves. This may not necessarily be true, they maybe much more social then the world gives them credit for. Their specialty or focus just happens to be video games instead of politics.
Random Thoughts
13 years ago
4 comments:
Very interesting blog! I commented on your previous post as well. Living in the digital age seems interesting to me especially since I don't spend as much time teaching. I teach a couple of afternoons a week in a addition to my TESOL coursework, housework, errands, and caring for my puppy. I have noticed though, a change in people. People I used to talk to on the phone more regularly are online now more using Facebook, which I know is not an MMORPG, but it is technology. One of my sisters commented recently "what happened to the good old fashioned phone call" is it that people don't really want to talk, are addicted to the computer, or just don't have the energy to pick up the phone in our busy world? Do you have any thoughts on this?
Wow! very interesting! It just may be another way of meeting people. I mean some people are sports fans and they meet at bars or games while watching the game. Others like certain type of music and they meet at concerts. The point is you have a common interest and you meet. From there on, you get to know the person. I just hope the gamers are honest about their personal lives and don't pretend to be other people.
What about people who game in Vegas? What kind people do they meet Ms. Pop Psychology? Or can I call you Pop? Don't worry your secret. It is safe with me (yeah, right!).
Watch the traffic back...it can be horrendous!
Seriously though, drive safely because I can't finish our project alone.
Gaming in Vegas is another game altogether. It seems to play on the thrill of winning and the seemingly close chance to be greatly rewarded should one choose to play. And alcohol of course.
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