Finding Your Tribe: Why Building Community in Online Gaming Matters

Online gaming has become an important pastime for millions of individuals around the world as playing games allows them to relieve stress while having fun at the same time. Although gamers are often perceived as loners who spend too much time in their basement or gaming room, research proves that online gaming has social benefits that can contribute to a person’s wellbeing. According to a recent study of an all-male online football gaming community, it was found that members who experienced depressive symptoms and lack of real-life support were 40 percent more likely to form and maintain social ties with other members, compared to gamers who had more real-life support.

Since isolation and mental health issues have become more prevalent over the years, finding ways to build human connections has become more important than ever. Online gaming allows players to interact and form relationships with others, giving people a chance to find their tribe. Here’s why building community in online gaming matters.

Promotes Social Integration Among Older Gamers

Playing online games on a PC, Xbox, PlayStation, or Switch isn’t just for the young. Although the majority of US gamers belong to the 18 to 34 age group, there are over 370 million players between the ages of 45 to 54, and 216 million gamers are aged 65 and older. Research shows that gaming can reduce social anxiety and increase sociability in older people, who are prone to disengage from society due to anxiety or isolation. Other studies show that playing online games may even improve cognitive performance and depression symptoms among older individuals.

If you’re an older gamer who’s struggling to find a group of people to game with online, consider joining online communities made up of mostly mature gamers, such as Quarter to Three. Games like ‘Insurgency’ are also popular among older gamers, as well as traditional games that have gone virtual, such as table and card games. Playing Poker, Blackjack, or Solitaire online allows older gamers to form teams, create strategies, exchange Blackjack tips, and support each other. The interactions that take place online not only enhances the gaming experience, but it also builds a sense of community for mature gamers.

Provides Ways to Bond with Family and Friends

As we get busier and busier with chores and work responsibilities, finding time to catch up with family and friends becomes increasingly difficult, especially if they live far away. But gamers who form online gaming groups or teams with their loved ones have found that this can be a good social activity to stay connected with the people that matter most in their lives. According to a new research by Activision Blizzard Media, more than half of players say that gaming helps them to develop stronger bonds with family and friends than social media and video chat.

Some may think that it could be difficult to find games that everyone in their circle will enjoy. If you want to create an inclusive gaming experience for everybody, find games that are fun and appropriate for everyone, so take into consideration your loved ones’ ages and skill levels. Racing games like ‘Mario Kart Tour’ are sure to be a hit among your friends and family, as well as games like ‘Animal Crossing,’ ‘Among Us,’ and ‘Jeopardy.’ Add some music and dance games into the mix, like ‘Just Dance’ or ‘Guitar Hero III’ to make gaming more fun.

Online gaming can provide ways to ease loneliness, make new friends, and stay connected with loved ones. If you have yet to find your gaming tribe, consider the tips mentioned above, and experience the benefits of being part of an exciting.