Global Geek News Blog

I have been playing video games for about 2 weeks shy of 17 years. My gaming addiction began at the age of 2 and while I’m about to turn 19, I see no sign of stopping anytime soon. In the past 17 years of my life as a gamer, until last night, I never pondered the question, ‘How old is too old for gaming?’ I came across the question of gamers over the age of 21 when browsing one of the message boards I visit.

This question made me wonder why anybody would allow age to dictate their gaming? Gaming is definitely one of the most expensive hobbies a person could have, with thousands of available games, new consoles and the constant development of high performance computer hardware. Despite the impact your financial situation may be on your gaming, should age dictate what games you play, if any?

After pondering this question for a while, I determined that the idea of no longer playing video games because of a persons age is ludicrous. The average age of the first generation of gamers that grew up on systems like the Atari and NES is now 28-31. I personally know many people 30+ who still play video games on a regular basis. I have met many people at LAN events, both men and women that play video games at an age older than 21.

In todays society, game developers have to create games for all ages. While there are many core gaming ideas, developers have to be able to make games that enjoyed by gamers across multiple generations. Games such as The Sims and Madden are two of the best examples of games that can bring generations together no matter what the age difference.

Although people outgrow many parts of life, gaming isn’t one of them. With the game market being larger than ever, it is clear that gaming spans all ages without alienating the hardcore gamers. The broad appeal of modern games caters to both hardcore and casual gamers of all ages with no sign of slowing down.