Millennials love playing video games. In fact, 67% of American households either have entertainment software installed in their computers or own video game consoles. Gaming is not just a simple form of entertainment for them. It has become away for them to interact with others, follow gaming celebrities, learn new things, bet through esports and build communities where they can meet like-minded individuals. In fact, there are eSports stadiums that are dedicated to holding game competitions. Professional commentators and game fanatics gather together to watch players and show their support as well as get some free memorabilia.
Relationships
Most online games can be played individually, but there are still plenty of multiplayer games that promote social interaction and allow players to build lasting social relationships with others. Games enable communication between players by providing tools for interaction such as chat. Players can also keep in touch over the phone, through email or face to face if they want to.
Communities
Individuals with similar interests and passion meet during conventions, events and competitions. Online interaction between supporters of multiplayer communities is similar to interaction in groups that meet each other in person. There’s a sense of community and mutual understanding that is built due to shared goals and values. Players negotiate goals and values at all times, which is shown in the way new members are recognized and given a role essential to the community’s operation. While disagreement regarding these issues may result in skirmishes within communities, solving these problems can change and strengthen the very foundation of the community. Multiplayer communities may change or vanish and gamers may shift between communities, but the bonds and social networks that were formed will survive even if the community disbands or a new one forms.
Open to Everyone
Millennials don’t need to worry about being judged when they join these multiplayer gaming communities as the usual building blocks of individuality like age or appearance are often unimportant in these communities. Even if you are a 35-year old professional or a 18-year old student, you can join a gaming community. Members of these communities may not meet in person, but they create opinions of one another based on how reliable or active they are. Reputation based on interaction with other people is important in online multiplayer communities. In an environment that is technologically mediated, the most active members are often the ones holding the leading positions.
Gaming has also allowed millennials to find a source of entertainment and income. World championships award a significant amount of cash prize to winners. In fact, top male players can earn more than $1,000,000 USD. Some colleges in the US are even offering scholarships to those who can assemble a League of Legends team. Esports will only continue to grow and there’s no stopping it.