Everyone Loves Games… Right?

Over the past few weeks, I have been hearing more and more people say, “Well, everyone loves games!” As a gaming scientist, and a human, I can tell you that is simply not true.

Let’s break this down.

First, “fun” is a slippery word. It’s broad, subjective, and really hard to define. For example, my mom once told me that doing the dishes is “really fun.” I have done the dishes. There is nothing fun about washing dishes. Not for me, anyway.

Second, people play games for all kinds of reasons. Put me in front of a heavy strategy game or one that requires lots of math, and I am asleep within ten minutes. But give me something immersive, or a game like Candyland that taps into my nostalgia, and I am all in. I personally play games to connect. I love games that let me explore, laugh, and engage with others. But before you put me in the “bonding gamer” box, know this: sometimes, I just want to destroy my brother in a ruthless game of Battleship or Stratego.

Third, the environment matters. A lot. At home with my family, I can be silly and loud. I can play freely, but put me in a room full of new acquaintances and suddenly I freeze. My arms won’t move, and I can not even remember my name. One reason people play games is to bond, to be accepted, but bonding requires trust, and acting silly is not something everyone feels comfortable doing in every environment.

Fourth, People

People are complex. One of the biggest takeaways from my Ph.D. studies is that people are the hardest thing to study. They are not consistent or predictable, no matter how much we want them to be. When people ask me what my favorite game is, I usually say, “Right now?” Because honestly, it depends on the day.  Just because today, I like Candyland tomorrow, I could want to play Battleship. 

Finally, let’s talk about the brain. Have you ever wondered why you love one game but hate another? Or why are you obsessed with a certain level? That’s your brain talking. People often forget that gaming has neurological and emotional consequences, not just in the extreme cases of addiction or sleep loss. I have  seen too many social media( coming soon a post on Ice Breakers) games that seem “cute and fun,” but actually cause frustration, anxiety, or even burnout over time. Why? Because they’re designed with shallow goals like endless competition and the myth that everyone finds games fun.

Great game design isn’t just about bells and whistles. It’s about understanding what is happening in the brain while someone plays, and how to guide them back to reality when the game ends.

So, no. Calling something a “game” doesn’t mean everyone will love it or even want to play it. Games are complicated. They require thought, design, and intention. And when done right, they can unlock genuine joy, connection, and curiosity.

Dr. Natalie