Students Turn to Gaming to Unwind During Pandemic

The past year has changed everyone in one way or another. With everyday life not being the same anymore, gaming has seen a massive rise with many people stuck and bored at home. According to Verizon, gaming usage increased 75% in the first week of lockdown.

The variety of games available right now could be what keeps people playing. Battle royal games like Call of Duty Warzone and Fortnite have gained popularity, as well as social simulation games like Animal Crossing. In less than a year, Fortnite attracted more than 125 million players and earned its creators, Epic Games, a revenue of about $5 billion in 2020.

Student gamers like Anastacia DeLaCruz have been playing more games and building up their gaming libraries during quarantine.

“It's mostly Animal Crossing, Super Mario Maker 2, sometimes Super Mario 3D All-Stars, and Mario 3D World last night,” DeLaCruz said.

She also is into personal computer (PC) gaming as well.

“As for PC games at the moment, Team Fortress 2, and Huniepop 1 and Huniepop 2: Double Date,” she said.

Pedro Rodriguez said that during the beginning of lockdown Devil May Cry, Ultimate Marvel vs. Capcom 3, and Minecraft were his top games. He said he played Minecraft because it was the closest experience to hanging out with friends due to lockdown.

With social distancing and staying at home, LCCC students will continue to use games to keep them less stressed and more relaxed.