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Is Gaming the Path to a Bright Future?

April 29, 2021

Gaming is well known as a fantastic leisure activity and an outlet for blowing off steam. But if you ask parents, the majority will lament the role of video games as a waste of time, distracting their kids’ attention from schoolwork, sports, and social activities. Same for bosses who may not be happy when learning an employee is gaming during the workday.

However, that stereotype is getting a massive update as people increasingly realize gaming can be now a viable path to a bright future filled with exciting opportunities. The growth of esports (competitive video game playing), in particular, has been explosive. In fact, the esports market is on track to surpass $1.5 billion by 2023.

Gaming as a Path to College Scholarships

The most talented gamers are scoring esports scholarships as elite colleges field esports teams and attract premier players the same way they try to reach athletes for swimming or baseball teams. Currently, there are more than 170 collegiate varsity gaming programs in NCAA Division I.

While video game design degrees have long been popular, colleges are now beginning to create esports programs. The University of California Irvine launched its esports program in 2016 — the first of its kind for a public university. Its pillars include “competition, academics and research, community, entertainment, and careers.”

When Work Becomes Play

Most people might not automatically connect video games with soft skills, but the new generation of gaming is about a lot more than sitting in isolation, pushing buttons to earn a high score. In fact, today’s games rely on heavy doses of flexibility and critical thinking, two of the top 10 skills that employers are looking for in 2021.

While career options abound for gamers in video game development and marketing, this new realization of the additional benefits of avid game playing is opening doors for game enthusiasts in a wider roster of industries, such as manufacturing, law, and education.

The Gamer Environment

Knowing more about the skills nurtured by video game playing and the possibilities inherent in gaming success can make many reconsider their resistance to supporting a gaming hobby. So, whether you are the gamer, or you know a casual player or one intending to make a career path out of gaming or video game design, sprucing up the gaming den could be more of an investment in the future than you might have thought.

In fact, where gaming equipment was once dismissed as a waste of money, now it’s easier than ever to see its value, particularly when you compare it to buying actual sports equipment.

Gaming Desktops

While video game consoles used to be all the rage, serious gamers now gravitate toward the power of gaming desktops. These powerful machines have the top-tier hardware you need to complement today’s sophisticated gaming software. You’ll likely want to add a new monitor, as games require ultra-high resolution and rapid refresh rates, so your gamer doesn’t miss a second of the action. You may find that some gamers prefer to build their own with components they choose, so you can buy a prebuilt PC or offer them the choice of customization.

Gaming Laptops

If you thought any laptop would do for video game play, think again. Gaming laptops are specially designed to support the power, graphics, and battery life that gamers need. The goal of these laptops is to replicate the PC experience while on the go. You can add in accessories like a gaming mouse and gaming headset to make a complete package.

Gaming Desks

With the powerful setup you’ve got, a regular computer desk may not do. Gamers prefer the open space available on a gaming desk so that they can set up their keyboard and multiple monitors. The secret weapon of a gaming desk? A mouse pad that covers the entire surface to promote more accurate cursor movements. Many also offer features to help you corral cords and cables. Try to look for one that is adjustable for better ergonomics.

Gaming Chairs

You can forget the beanbag chair; today’s players need gaming chairs that are comfortable and ergonomically correct. Try to look for high backs and lumbar support along with ergonomic and adjustability features to help keep your favorite gamer comfortable as they practice. Accessory pouches and cup holders are desirable add-ons. You can find a wide variety of colors to complement your decor, such as red gaming chairs, blue gaming chairs, and more. Other styles include rolling gaming chairs and reclining gaming chairs.

By taking gaming habits seriously, you’ll be ready to say, “Game on” and mean it.

About the Author

Cathie Ericson is a freelance writer who specializes in small business, finance and real estate.

All content provided herein is for educational purposes only. It is provided “as is,” and neither the author nor Office Depot warrants the accuracy of the information provided, nor do they assume any responsibility for errors, omissions, or contrary interpretation of the subject matter herein.

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