I played Meridian 59 in 1996. It was the first 3D graphical #MMORPG and it was an epic experience. I played #AnarchyOnline in 2001 and I so miss my meat sack Meta-Physicist pets. I left AO to beta test #WorldofWarcraft in 2003/2004 and played that until 2012 running the second largest guilds on our server until starting FFXIV in 2015. Did I learn anything useful from MMOs? Strength, patience, leadership, organizational skills, cooperation, trust, friendship, wisdom, perseverance, and confidence.
@thewebrecluse I played WoW back in the 2k's, but it was mostly because my friends were doing it and it was really the only way to interact with them. I did have fun though.
I think MMO's weren't ever really my thing, totally, but I really got lost in the online survival games of the 20teens. I think it helped me process the stresses of Afghanistan and Iraq, running around a desolate server, never knowing when a stray round would hit me while I manage my backpack space.
@thewebrecluse I agree, gaming is also a great benchmark of my mental sharpness. When there is a decline in my mental processing ability, there is a measurable standard that I think is overlooked. Not sure if you're at the top of your game? Play COD against a 12 year old. You will know where you stand instantly.
@DanIsWriting Gaming is great for mental health as well as dealing with depression, grief, and other kinds of healing. My friend who is a clinical psychologist is also a gamer and works with gamers (even in game for sessions on occasion). I can say for me it has kept my mind sharp, my reflexes agile as well. I will be one of those gaming grandmas on YouTube I have no doubt. I've had a controller in my hand since I was 11 years old. ❤️