game, net, match

Working in a dvd, music and gaming department you see the hype for new releases come and quickly diminish soon after. Nothing has had such a hype surrounding it lately than the release of the new World of Warcraft extension. The number of customers I had asking for this online game was incredible. On its release it sold out in half a day. I had only heard of this game via customers requesting it, i guess i havent been with the right media to be exposed to any advertising of the game.

Being the naturally observant type of person I am, I took note of the type of people who purchased the game. Sure enough I saw plenty of your "typical" gamers (and yes i am stereotyping) you know the sort, teenagers who come straight from school (where they have spent all day talking about some new cheat) to meet their online pals in the magical world of internet gaming and stay up til dawn to "clock" a level. What surprised me was also the equal number of late 20's/30somethings that came with the same enthusiastic glint in their eye as they saw that the game they had been waiting for was on the shelf. I asked a woman in her 30's, who bought 6 copies, why? Why the fascination? Why the hype?

She replied, with wide eyed amusement at my ignorance of the game, that it was an incredible game for its graphics and action, which her and her 5 mates are addicted to. She told me her and her friends see it as being in control of another world, taking on a virtual persona, she claimed it gave her a feeling of excitement, something to look forward to at the end of a working day. I guess online gaming for many is a form of escape or adventure which is sometimes just not possible in the "real" world, as long as your virtual encounters dont completly overtake your physical/social ones, its safe (or sane). I believe for most its a psychologically healthy outlet. Those who are looked down on at school or pushed around, can take on the role of a military soldier in the virtual world. They can interact with people from all over the world who share a similar passion. It can spark peoples imagination, make them think tactically. Gaming has become more then the fun of watching a ball bounce between two paddles (bless you atari), it has become apart of peoples lives, a form of virtual interaction and not just for kids but anyone.

the welcome

Well the title says it all, this is my blog. If your reading this you've accidently stumbled upon it or have an honest want to read my ramblings, either way i hope you find your way back :D ps. napoleon is there for pure enjoyment!