While I agree that it is probably best for the gaming industry and culture to reach out to non-gamers of all stripes, I am still troubled by what I see as a lingering stigma towards "gaming."
I agree with Abedeus and Shamus when they say that gaming has potential as an art form and a means of expression, especially in regards to adult and mature topics. I think we need games that are not only good, but tell thoughtful stories. So far, the games that attempt this seem to be aimed at the "hardcore" crowd (your Mass Effects, Fallouts, etc.)
More people than ever, particularly at university, play games. Everyone can gather around Rock Band or WiiSports at a party or with a group of friends. Even women are playing Peggle in class. The problem is that they still see a disassociation between themselves as gamers and people like me, who are also gamers. They see it as a party game or time waster, and when was the last time Twister or Solitaire told you a good story? Even though they may be gamers themselves, they still see "gaming" as the province of geeks, nerds, etc. Hell, my roommates play Madden like I played Fallout and they still accused me of "wasting my life" and being "one of those nerdy gamer types."
What I'm afraid of, I guess, is the permanent association of my beloved hobby with childishness, despite the number of people who participate in it.
Also, I don't know about the old folks, but kids are critical to the future of gaming. I mean, I started playing video games at 6 years old with a Nintendo classic and Mario, Zelda, etc. Without clever, family friendly games for kids, they may never get into gaming the way those of us who really care about the hobby do.
I agree with Abedeus and Shamus when they say that gaming has potential as an art form and a means of expression, especially in regards to adult and mature topics. I think we need games that are not only good, but tell thoughtful stories. So far, the games that attempt this seem to be aimed at the "hardcore" crowd (your Mass Effects, Fallouts, etc.)
More people than ever, particularly at university, play games. Everyone can gather around Rock Band or WiiSports at a party or with a group of friends. Even women are playing Peggle in class. The problem is that they still see a disassociation between themselves as gamers and people like me, who are also gamers. They see it as a party game or time waster, and when was the last time Twister or Solitaire told you a good story? Even though they may be gamers themselves, they still see "gaming" as the province of geeks, nerds, etc. Hell, my roommates play Madden like I played Fallout and they still accused me of "wasting my life" and being "one of those nerdy gamer types."
What I'm afraid of, I guess, is the permanent association of my beloved hobby with childishness, despite the number of people who participate in it.
Also, I don't know about the old folks, but kids are critical to the future of gaming. I mean, I started playing video games at 6 years old with a Nintendo classic and Mario, Zelda, etc. Without clever, family friendly games for kids, they may never get into gaming the way those of us who really care about the hobby do.
