I’m not a “gamer” in the traditional sense, but my childhood was defined by digital play. I’m not talking about tag, hide and seek, or physical games at the park; I’m talking about the digital world.
The Living Room Stage
The existence of the Wii was a centerpiece of my upbringing. I remember all the kids putting on performances for the adults in the living room; some preferred “The Michael Jackson Experience,” while others were loyal to “Just Dance.” Even now, when I hear “Jump” by Kris Kross or “Promiscuous” by Nelly Furtado and Timbaland, I can’t help but bust a move.
Family Rivalries and Rematches
Speaking of the Wii, you can’t forget classics like “Wii Sports” or “Mario Kart.” Those games were the heart of family functions and big cousin sleepovers, filled with fighting over who got to be Yoshi, Mario, or Peach, and yelling over one another to demand a rematch. What a time to be alive.
The Rebellious Scholar
Then there were the games we played in the elementary school computer lab, like “Cool Math Games,” that we’d sneakily play when we were supposed to be finishing assignments. I like to think these educational games helped strengthen my skills, but they also remind me that kids can be rebellious, even when the game is meant for learning.
The Spark of Storytelling
Then there is “Episode,” an interactive storytelling app. Honestly, that app is a secret of mine; I think it’s what started my writing journey. I doubt I would be a HerCampus writer today without it, as it was my first introduction to the deep emotions that books can evoke in your actual life.
Late Night Cooking Mama
When you speak of the Wii, you have to mention its handheld counterpart, the DS. I’m not the best cook as a 20 year old, but “Cooking Mama” didn’t make me feel that way. At one point, “Cooking Mama” was more than just a game for kids it was the reason my DS got taken away by my mother. Not as a punishment, though; she took it so she could play it while I slept! I remember waking up at 3:00 a.m. once, peeking around the corner, and seeing my mom getting into it with my DS. It was always that serious.
The Fashionista Origin Story
And I can’t forget a classic of mine: does anyone remember “MovieStarPlanet”? I consider myself a bit of a fashionista nowadays, and I think I can credit that game as the origin. Between earning coins, talking to strangers, taking care of pets, and managing a house, I was really only focused on the fashion.
A Nostalgic Soundtrack
They just don’t make games like they used to. Hearing the “Subway Surfers” or “Temple Run” sounds being used for TikTok trends nowadays brings back so many visions it makes me feel like Raven Symoné.
The Final Level
Games are more than just pixels; they are a starting point in more ways than one. All of these games remind me of my roots and the person I’ve become today. When I think about the path that led me here, I think my final statement would have to be: “Charge it to the game.”
