Did you ever blow air into a video game cartridge to clean it? Growing up in the ’80s, I vividly remember having to press and hold the reset button on my gaming console to restart a game.
I got my first home gaming console—a Nintendo Entertainment System (NES)—at age 9. This marvel, equipped with an NES Light Zapper and Power Pad, included a compilation of the iconic Super Mario Bros., Duck Hunt, and World Class Track Meet games.
As I strive to build a career at the crossroads of technology, writing, and art, I recognize how video games like Super Mario Bros. ignited my passion for design and storytelling.
The Early Days
Before fancy next-gen consoles and graphics, there was 8-bit Mario in his side-ways glory. Super Mario World (Super NES) is my favorite from the Mario Bros. franchise. I loved its uniquely destined characters: Yoshi, Bowser’s kids, Luigi, Princess Toadstool, and in-game music. The gameplay mechanic of leveling up Mario to SUPER MARIO and unleashing fire flower projectiles was exhilarating!
Over the years, I’ve owned other gaming consoles, including a Sega Dreamcast. Many of my games were refurbished or previously owned. I’d wait for next-gen consoles to be released and look forward to all the older video games, consoles, and accessories to go on sale. I saved major lettuce whenever I was in the market for a game console.
Creativity and Problem-solving
Video games can inspire creativity by immersing players in rich, interactive worlds that encourage them to think outside the box.
The Tomb Raider series excels at connecting level design, story-telling, and puzzle-solving using the game’s environment. The game’s platforming included timed jump puzzles that could lead to a game over if mistimed. I’ve been a fan of the franchise ever since.
Strategic Thinking
Video games are an excellent platform for cultivating strategic thinking. They teach players to solve puzzles through trial and error.
In the vast world of Destiny 2, players must work together to seek unique approaches to conquering the gaming environment as in raids. Raids are end-game encounters that are the ultimate test of teamwork, strategy, and problem-solving skills. Players work together as a 6-person fire team bound by the common goal of not wiping for the 50/11 time. My game motto is: jump, survive, or be near to survive!
That is to say, raids demand a high level of coordination and tactical planning that can only be achieved by a well-oiled fire team. Titans might cast towering barricades to shield their comrades, Warlocks could weave healing rifts to mend wounds, and Hunters might dart through the shadows, striking with lethal precision.
The first time I cleared the King’s Fall raid as a fireteam we struggled during the second encounter with Golgoroth and its challenge – each player must take a turn holding the ogre’s gaze. I don’t even recall how many times we wiped. The thrill of victory in a Destiny 2 raid is not just in the loot it yields, but in the journey, in the moments of triumph over adversity achieved through the collective wit and will of the fireteam.
Whether finding innovative ways to progress through a game or tackling puzzles, video games can be a powerful tool for honing communication and problem-solving skills in life.
Choosing my path
During high school and as a young adult, I didn’t take notice of the early signs and hints because I never thought pursuing a career in game design was feasible.
However, several years ago, I discovered coding when I launched a WordPress blog, and I’ve been fascinated by the wide range of technologies that drive the web ever since.
Building Blocks
The world of computer science is filled with fascinating concepts that can be closely linked to the captivating experiences found in video games.
In Alien: Isolation, the terrifying alien creature’s artificial intelligence is represented as an object with specific attributes and behaviors. The AI mimics human-like behavior, adapting and evolving tactics to hunt the player. This concept fascinated me as it allows for complex interactions and relationships between game elements, mirroring the intricate web of objects and classes found in computer science.
This showcases the potential of AI to create immersive, dynamic, and challenging gaming experiences, leaving a lasting impression on players and enthusiasts alike.
Conclusion
Video games have influenced my decision to study computer science. Back then, it was less about impressive visuals and more about creating innovative game levels and compelling narratives.
As I reflect on the video games that influenced me, I am excited about the prospect of creating games that will inspire the next generation of gamers. These games have taught me the importance of perseverance and problem-solving, skills that are essential in life.
How has video gaming inspired you on your journey?
