Gaming is one of the cheapest forms of entertainment in today’s computer age. Anyone can use their mobile devices or computers to access a variety of games at little to no cost. Many game developers also encourage this form of entertainment by promoting single-player games as a convenient option for inexperienced and less competitive players.
Since single-player games only require the input of one player, they demand less time and resources. However, several studies suggest that long-time players may experience some psychological impacts. In this piece, the pros and cons of single-player games are discussed. It also includes some recommendations on how to mitigate the cons of single-player games. Enjoy the read.
The Rising Popularity of Single-Player Games
2020 was a defining year in the gaming industry. With lockdown restrictions in many countries, people resorted to various forms of entertainment to distract themselves from the pandemic. Games like strategy games and board games, but also MGA casinos were particularly flooded with new and experienced players trying out different games during this time.
Computer gaming sites were equally as flooded as online casinos. Experienced players visited these sites to relive the nostalgic feeling of their favorite games from the 1980s to the 2000s. According to Statista, gaming became one of the most popular activities during the lockdown. The record shows that about 1.58 physical game titles were purchased by players in different parts of the world in March 2020 alone. Gamers also spent about $10 billion on digital games in the same month.
Post-pandemic records suggest that many players who began gaming during the lockdown have remained loyal. While multiplayer options were more popular during the pandemic, more players have switched to single-player modes post-pandemic. The multiplayer option was more popular during the lockdown because players tried to create some form of social interaction via games. Now that the world has returned to its busy state, more players prefer the solitude of single-player games.
The Long-Term Impacts of Single-Player Games
The long-term impacts of single-player games can be likened to a coin’s two sides. On one hand, they offer players multiple perks; on the other, they have not-so-good consequences. Depending on how long players are engaged in single-player games, they will each have peculiar experiences of the pros and cons.
Single-player games can help a player gain mastery of the game and other aspects of their life. By collecting coins, medals, points, and even winning cash through these games, players develop a consistent “cycle of expertise.” This skill transcends the game and becomes a part of the player’s day-to-day life.
As a solo-designed game, every player is the sole decision maker and architect of the outcome. By playing constantly, the players can build strong coordination and organization skills. These skills can help them navigate difficult and complex real-life tasks.
Another pro of single-player games is the increased level of emotional engagement. These games allow players to empathize with their gaming characters and, by extension, other people. Players can even learn valuable life lessons from single-player narrative games with meaningful takeaways.
On the flip side, the impacts of single-player options include addiction and compulsive behavior. The key word here is “addiction.” Addictive gaming behavior can affect the player’s sleeping pattern, daily responsibilities, and social activities. It can also lead to isolation and loneliness, depression, heart disease, and cognitive decline.
Final Thoughts
Single-player games have earned a top spot in the gaming industry. There is, however, a need to create a balance between its pros and cons. Despite the thrill of the present and future of gaming, physical activities and social interaction should be promoted as healthy alternatives. Parents also need to monitor and control the gaming activities of younger players. For players above parental involvement, moderation and balance are key to minimizing the cons of single-player games.
Game development also has a huge role to play in this regard. The onus is on them to ensure age-appropriate games for different players. They also need to create ethical game designs that reduce the players’ risk of addiction.