If you're anything like me, you've had the pleasure to become obsessed with sinking into the virtual world where all matters in the real world are set aside and the only worry is between you and the joysticks underneath your fingers. I'm speaking of video games, of course. No, playing video games is not 'geeky' or 'nerdy' as it is presumed to be by many. They just simply don't understand. It's an experience like no other and there are many games out there that have the ability to leave a mark on those who indulge in them. Here are my top 5 games that have had this exact effect.
1. Mario Party Franchise
With the introduction of the Nintendo Wii, families were able to come together for a night of competition. I will always remember the nights that my mom, sister and I spent battling each other in minigames that range from memorization to teamwork. It was a must play in its prime and is a game I will never forget.
2. The Elder Scrolls V: Skyrim
I have to say, on this list, this is easily the best game in terms of visual effect and close to the best game in terms of story line. Skyrim places you into a world where you become a hero with each hour that you play. This might explain why I've spent more hours on this game than any open world game available on console (I had it for Xbox 360 and then the remastered version for Xbox One). From the moment you discover that you are the Dovahkiin to the last moments of defeating Alduin, the adventure is one made in a gamers heaven.
3. Call of Duty Franchise
Of course, how could I leave out the most popular console first person shooter game and one loved by gamers of almost any genre? This game has become one of the biggest franchises involved in eSports but also has a special place in the hearts of casual players. The hours that I have spent playing this game on Xbox Live with some of my best friends is unspeakable. I'd go as far as saying it helped form some of my most important relationships with people during that time. If that doesn't show the effect of the game on my life, I don't know what could.
4. Fifa Franchise
I played Fifa and Call of Duty simultaneously for years with many of the same friends. My friend group was largely formed not only through video games but also by being on the high school soccer team. Practices consisted of speaking of the night before's events in the video game along with the countless hours of rage the game brought with it. I have two holes in my wall in my room at my old house due to this game. That's passion.
5. Runescape
This is a tribute to the real grinders out there. The undisputed, most unforgettable, simply the best game of all time, (that's not an opinion I promise) Runescape. The MMORPG is the game I always go back to no matter how old I get. The money I've spent, the money I've begged my mom to spend, the emotions that come with quests and deaths, everything about this game is unique and incomparable. I could go on and on about this game and the effect that it has had on me, but it would be impossible to comprehend the impact of this game without diving into the world. From tutorial island to the deep caves of the God Wars Dungeon, Runescape is a game that will live in my heart forever.
