The Case for Putting Down the Video Game Controller

During the past 15 or so months, video games have emerged as a sanctuary for many people. Amidst the Covid-19 lockdowns--and in the absence of mental and emotional outlets like hanging out indoors with friends--games got people through a lot of stressful times. But now, in many parts of the world, vaccines are rolling out and the weather is changing, which means it might be time for a new reprieve: putting down the controller and going outside. Make no mistake, this is not going to be some essay about how Covid is over and everyone should frolic mask-less out in the streets. Not everyone is vaccinated, and the world is still very much in the throes of a pandemic. But if you are amongst the growing number of people who feel ready to find some semblance of a pandemic-adjusted normal life, you should feel OK about stepping away from your PlayStation 5. (Or computer.