First Post

Hey All,

Been enjoying the sun too much so have pretty much left this to the last minute.

My name is Adam and I have been playing Videogames fairly consistently for about 25 years. As I remember it, my first gaming experience was with an Atari 2600. If anyone else has played one, you will know just how far the technology has come; the 8-bit graphics and primitive sound would be laughable to anyone who has grown up in the Playstation age. What has not changed so much, in my opinion, is the basic appeal of all Videogames.

In relation to our ideas about what exactly defines a gamer, I think that most people have the potential to become one. The Nintendo Wii is the obvious example of the expansion of those who play Videogames. The barrier of a non-intuitive control system was largely removed with the move natural movements the Wii system allowed.

At a more base level, Videogames are natural electronic extensions of games and play. For those (often older) people who might, for example, play card games but would never think of picking up a controller, I think this is largely due to Videogame systems seeming "foreign", way outside of their usual interests and knowledge.

However, often all that is required is a little perseverance. My elderly Nana, who is fairly adept at using her computer, surprised me recently after upgrading her PC. Her old computer had some ancient golf simulator game on it, and she was a little upset that it was now missing. Turns out she would often enjoy a few virtual rounds, something that I would not have guessed! Luckily I was able to find her a freeware replacement.

My Nana would never consider herself a "gamer", but like most people, she enjoys games. The medium, electronic or otherwise, makes little difference.

Looking forward to the rest of the course!
Adam