Some people think video games are just a way to zone out, like watching TV, but they’re so much more. Games open up a world of possibilities beyond just having fun. Unlike movies, games are interactive—you actually have to do something. For example, in *Sonic CD*, if you don’t move, Sonic will literally jump off a cliff.
Nowadays, a lot of games, especially online multiplayer ones, aren’t just about competition—they can also be super relaxing. Take *ETS2*, where you can just chill, driving a truck and exploring. Games can boost both your physical and mental health, from sports or dance games that get you moving, to multiplayer games that help with social skills and teamwork. Plus, they connect people worldwide, letting you make friends and collaborate. Just remember, games are meant to be enjoyed, not something you feel forced to do!
A while ago, most online players were into competitive games where you faced off against other players or teams, with clear winners and losers. Some of these games, like *LoL*, developed toxic communities, especially in team-based games. But in the same year *LoL* came out, a solo developer released *Minecraft*, a game that changed everything. Unlike competitive games, *Minecraft* offers total freedom—no winners, no set paths, just exploration and creativity. Its multiplayer mode allowed players to build and collaborate in peaceful communities, making it the best-selling game ever.
Other notable games include *One Hour One Life*, where you live for 60 minutes, *Human Fall Flat*, a funny puzzle game with goofy physics, and *Pico Park*, a cooperative puzzle platformer. Communication is key in games like *Keep Talking and Nobody Explodes*, where players must describe and defuse a bomb using teamwork, and *We Were Here*, a puzzle game that requires players to communicate via walkie-talkies to solve challenges from different locations.
All these games highlight the importance of cooperation and effective communication for success. Cooperation is also key in game creation through mods. Communities of players work together to fix bugs, add content, and improve games, often sharing their work for free. Without mods, some games wouldn’t be nearly as popular or playable.
Some platforms, like *Humble Bundle*, support solidarity in other ways too. They sell game bundles at discounted prices, with a portion of the proceeds going to charity. You can even choose how much to donate, with a different NGO featured each month. For example, "Child's Play Charity" provides therapeutic games to pediatric hospitals. So far, *Humble Bundle* has raised over $256 million for charity.
Text: Manuel López
Manuel je dobrovoľníkom programu Európskej komisie Európsky zbor solidarity na dobrovoľníckom projekte v Bratislavskom dobrovoľníckom centre. Projekt bol podporený z programu Európsky zbor solidarity.