OPINION: Games bring joy through friendships
By Neto Gonzalez
Editor-in-chief
Published Tuesday, Oct. 3, 2023
Growing up, playing video games with friends is often among a gamer’s fondest memories. These are the moments that etch themselves into our hearts, forging friendships that withstand the tests of time and distance.
In those days, we counted down the minutes at school, eager to return home and immerse ourselves in the virtual worlds that awaited us. It was a time of boundless excitement, where the hardships of the day could be forgotten, even if for a short moment.
As we reminisce about the games of our childhood, it’s easy to get lost in a wave of melancholic nostalgia. Games like “COD: Zombies,” “GTA V” and “MW2” hold a special place in our hearts. But in truth, it’s not the games themselves that make these memories so treasured, but the people we shared them with. It’s easy to look back at these games through rose-colored glasses, but in reality, they were nothing more than a vessel—a hub for joy.
It was the laughter that echoed through the room, the cheers after a hard-fought victory and the inside jokes only we understood, and oftentimes, brutal trash talking. It was the friendships forged in the heat of competition and camaraderie. Those were the things that made those days truly special. It was a simpler time, a time when the complexities of adulthood were far from our minds.
Yet, as the years rolled on, life demanded more of us. The inevitable march of time swept us into the currents of responsibility and ambition. School, work, family and significant others all beckoned with their own demands. One by one, our friends stopped logging on, and the virtual worlds we once inhabited together began to fade.
Realizing the old days of gaming are past can be a somber experience. It’s a sad acknowledgment that the carefree days of our youth have given way to the rigors of adulthood. But even as we mourn the passing of that time, it’s crucial to remember how incredible those memories truly are.
For those who didn’t experience the joy of gaming with friends as children, it’s difficult to comprehend just how impactful those times were. These memories are more than just nostalgia; they are a testament to the indomitable spirit of friendship, a reminder of the laughter and camaraderie that defined our youth.
As we navigate the complexities of adulthood, let us hold these memories close to our hearts. They serve as a reminder of the magic of our past, a time when the world was a simpler place and our friendships were unburdened by the responsibilities of life. Though these times have passed, they will forever be etched in our hearts as a testament to the incredible bonds we shared and the joy we found in the company of friends.
As the future knocks on our doorstep, it’s essential to carry this spirit forward. Let us look back at our past with gratitude for the joy it bestowed upon us.
