Gaming
Gaming communities, both in-person and online, are set to grow. Games have been a lifeline for many during the past two years of social isolation. According to Vazquez, the popularity of games like Among Us demonstrates a growing interest in forming communities around gaming, and the trend of socially connected gaming is expected to continue.
Online gaming offers a global platform for players to connect, communicate, and build communities. Platforms such as Discord enable users to interact within the game and through various channels. This interconnectedness is anticipated to expand in the coming years.
Walter anticipates a rise in in-person gaming communities, particularly as the pandemic eases and people seek more outside activities. In the Bay Area, there is a noticeable increase in game nights at local stores and cafes, bringing communities together around diverse games like Magic: The Gathering, Settlers of Catan, and Mothership. Some stores are even organizing events where gamers can gather to paint miniature player characters.
Contrary to the idea of gaming being a private home activity, Walter emphasizes that gaming has evolved into a social space. Games provide an avenue for rethinking and reshaping social relationships, emphasizing their role in creating shared experiences and fostering a sense of community. This shift towards more interactive and socially oriented gaming is expected to continue influencing how people connect and engage with each other.