COVID-19 can’t stop us from playing
Self-isolation has to become more of a norm for a while as we combat the spread of Corona virus. As long as we stay home as much as possible, avoid social situations and remember to wash our hands often, we have a good chance of staying safe. Streaming is the perfect hobby for this and people worldwide are picking up their controllers or keyboards and stream online.
In the coming months we are sure to see a rise in streamers and content on existing channels. In times of crisis, we turn to what we know to be productive. So, yeah, we’re going to stream content like never before. If you are new to this then welcome.
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You are a role model! Act like it!
Without trying to inflate your egos or anything, we want you to know that you are important influential figures for the gaming community right now. Not only can you provide online entertainment for those struggling with self-isolation, you can also help spread a positive message. Spread love between gamers and show them that there is a calm, geeky community to turn to when they feel anxious. Use your platform to spread appropriate news and information about the Corona situation. This could mean a heads-up about cancellations but also repeated advice about hygiene practices and self-isolation tips. Encourage people to shop sensibly. You don’t need a toilet paper fort in your gaming room.
What you absolutely must not do is use your platform to spread any news from unreliable sources. Fake news and gossip will get your viewers nowhere apart from in a spiral of false hope or utter panic.
What games should you play during COVID-19?
There are lots of games that are perfect for this period of self-isolation. Games with an online multiplayer element are great for connecting with friends and family. Fantasy games that take you away from the real world are preferable. Sports games like FIFA and NBA titles can often damage relationships but now is the time to be a little kinder and make the most of them. If we can’t watch our teams play, we can at least act out the games and finish the seasons ourselves, right? Speaking of sports and fitness, this might be the time to dust off any fitness games to help you stay in shape. Also, if you are in isolation as a family, fun games like Mario Kart and Mario Party can entertain players of all ages. It is also brilliant escapism – unless those pesky Goombas are carriers.
What games should you NOT play?
Try and avoid anything where humanity is on a knife-edge in some sort of post-apocalyptic world. Zombie games are probably out too. It should go without saying that This War Of Mine, Frostpunk and State of Decay are amazing games, but we’re meant to be having fun and finding relief, not training for some worst-case scenario.
What can you do if gaming and streaming get a bit too much?
We get it, there is only so much you can watch before it gets repetitive. There are only so many times you can try and complete a mission before you risk repetitive strain injury. Don’t be afraid to head out alone. A lonely walk in the fresh air among nature is just as important right now. You’re not going to find yourself in a scene from The Last of Us.
Try and make the most of this time.
It might sound weird to encourage people to appreciate self-isolation during a time of global panic. But you don’t need to panic. If you are careful about social distancing when you do go out and maintain good hygiene you can still enjoy a lot of what you love. We’re gamers. We’re streamers. We’ve been self-isolating for years. We’ve got this.
