What age do you think adults should stop playing video games?

Question

LesterJester · Accepted Answer

Why should there be an age restriction?

You realise the games people play today and all the games that came before were designed / created by Adults, right?

That's like saying adults shouldn't watch cartoons, despite adults being the ones who create those cartoons.

I grew up playing on my dad's Atari, which at that time, he was in his 30s and played it regularly. My grandfather had an Intellivision and then got an NES. My brother then got his NES, then a Super Nintendo, and I eventually got a Gameboy... Oh and a C64 with loads of games. My Grandfather played Super Mario Bros and Bug Bunny's Birthday Blowout regularly until he passed away in his 80s.

Today, I have a gaming PC, a Gaming Laptop and a WiiU. I have close to 300 games on Steam alone that I have accumulated since 2004 and earlier if you count Half-Life, TFC, Counter-Strike that got ported from the old Won servers.

I currently play Fallout 76, Cyberpunk 2077, No Man's Sky, Sims 4 and a few others.

Heck my mom has a PS and plays No Man's Sky along with a bunch of other games and my dad has a PC to play Red Baron and a few older games. He's in his 70s and my mom in her late 60s.

Are you going to tell me I'm too old to be playing video games?

First off, I don't give two liquidy turds what you think or how you think I should live my life. Secondly, who gave you the authority to dictate to others that there should be a cut off age for playing video games?

Why should there be?

I suppose old people should also stop having sex too?

Guess we should just play shuffle board and cards in our retirement homes, huh?

dangerDoge · Accepted Answer

I don’t think there is an age.

Here is my reasoning: I ask myself… what is a video game, and why does it have a type of stigma to some that it has maximum-age levels? I think the reason is because video games are simply not that old. People often times like playing games of their generation, and we attribute games to that generation. I don’t see why we should be ok with elderly people playing board games like Parchesi or card games like Solitaire yet have an issue with someone playing Call of Duty.

It follows the same path as what happened to music. One generation awhile back listened to classical and thought jazz/rock was mischievous, and then those people got older, and now a lot of jazz is considered outdated to some. Point is — generational differences impact our perspective greatly. I suspect that by the time people currently in their 20s are considered the elderly, video games will be considered the norm and/or be less stigmatized for older folks.

People should play what they want, no matter what age. Just because many older folks are not active gamers does not mean they societally shouldn’t be.

Ammi_goldie806 · Accepted Answer

I know certain age groups stop you from doing things that you're not supposed to be doing but if you're just playing a video game age has no limit nor does a game who cares if people are making fun of you for watching SpongeBob at the age of 30 this is your life this is what you want you can care what other people think if you want to play the Xbox 360 when you're liking your 60s I mean who really gives a f*** right cuz you still going to do it anyway and you shouldn't care what other people think because it's just going to tear you down and then you still have a mental problems and that's not good for nobody so just be you keep your head up young king and never let anybody tell you what you can or can't do now go get a victory Royale!!!👑💯😜

Anonymous · Accepted Answer

I don’t think there’s a certain age. I think you can play video games at any age if you have the free time. However, you’ll need to think of the future. If you have a stable job, you need to focus on your work and use that free time to play. If you are married, you want to spend more time with your partner (hopefully). If you have kids, you will want to focus more on them and raising them, (again, hopefully). But there is always a small amount of leisure time to play video games. It’s just different external factors that you have to consider. There will be things that take up all your leisure time to play video games, and if you can’t live without video games… Good luck.

ShaTTeredMasterpeace · Answer

I don't think there should be an age limit on that. Playing video games for me is a stress reliever. It helps to take my mind off the millions of things that run through it constantly. If it's an everyday, all day thing then yeah maybe they should cut back. But I don't feel like there's a cutoff for it.

SnowedIn · Answer

They shouldn't as long as it's not interfering with life and relationships.

Cynicaldreamer · Answer

When they're ready to or bored of them? Because last time I checked there was no set age to stop playing games!

I still play video games. Several people I know in their 40s, 50s, and older play them... especially once they retire and have time to spare (I cannot wait until I retire so I can play video games whenever I want to! haha)

Basically there's no set age to stop playing video games. Most adults stop playing video games because they either outgrow them, or no longer have the time to enjoy them like they used to.

CharlesScene · Answer

Play video games till you die. There is a ton of benefits to playing video games. Also, if you are talented enough, you can even make 7 figures a year at playing video games.

Just going to list some benefits, that have all been tested and proven to be true:
1. Video Games has helped people with Social Anxiety become more social and actually help them get passed their anxiety's
2. Video Games Improve Decision Making Skills
3. Video Games reduce Stress
4. Video Games improve memory
5. Video Games improve eye sight
6. Video Games improve hand eye coordination
7. Video Games improve reaction time (Gamers on average react 60% faster than a professional athlete and gamers react 250% faster than the average person)

GreenLanternI0I · Answer

I would stop playing video games the second people would stop watching Football, Basketball, Soccer and all other type of sports or movies to that matter. Because what these people do is absolutely no different from what I do. They are watching someone else playing professional sports or watching movies where outcome is completely out of their hands. While I on the other hand, use same professional athletes against other professional athletes where outcome is completely in my control. In fact the way I see it, it is more beneficial and fun playing video games then simply watching TV while unable to do anything about it.

LrningthisLife · Answer

as soon as it becomes an addiction or distract you from daily life responsibilities and productivity. I mean, it's not uncommon to find video-games a choice of hobby in question. Especially since video-gaming has a variety of genres that might just be inspiration to developing a person's other interests. Of course this isn't always the case, I don't think there's an age limit when adults should stop playing video-games. And remember, when you stop something it's for something better or life's too busy i guess.

SueShe · Answer

As soon as people are in a steady and long-term relation or if those people have regular jobs, I believe that they should have other priorities than playing video games all day long.

It is probably okay to play 30 minutes or an hour once or twice a week but to prioritize those games over your relation is definitely not okay and a red flag.

Just like drugs, gambling, sex or drinking, playing video games has a great potential for addiction. People don't want to recognize that they are addicted and need to seek for professional help. They rather dismiss it as being a normal behavior.

To sum up, there is no definite age to stop playing but rather substantially reduce it and give it a lower priority.

t-8900 · Answer

Games are made for all ages. Same with things like anime for instance. People who think Anime is for kids can go tell me that after theyve seen Monster, Berserk, Tokyo Ghoul. Since when are brutal murders and sexual acts for kids exactly? With games you get many with very adult themes too. I have to assume oe who think that way must only know of Nintendo titles. And if people think it's a waste or time then that should go for that same time being spent watch shows and movies. Not a lot of sense being used with notions like that tbh.

Dontaaaa · Answer

People who are saying that there's an actual age range to not play video games are fucking retarded, hands down.

You should stop playing video games whenever you want.

It should go without saying that as an adult you need to manage your time with playing video games.

Saying that you shouldn't play video games as an adult doesn't even make fucking sense.

Why not? Because it's unproductive?

Oh please, like any one of you other adults spend every waking moment of your life being productive, BULLSHIT.

TheSpaceGnome · Answer

Never, it's not an age oriented activity, it's a hobby.

Same thing goes for watching cartoons/anime, playing tabletop games, larping, cosplay, or collecting figures/comics/novels/tech/trading cards.

Being a nerd does not = childish.

Many people even have being a gamer as a spouse trait requirement (myself included, because sorry, but a woman who doesn't play video games is really really reeeaally boring to me, and I wouldn't even hang out with her, let alone date or marry her)

ShadezMcgee · Answer

There is no limit. I love video games and still play them. Granted not nearly as much as I used to since I have other obligations and responsibilities to my jobs, friends, family, girlfriend and hobbies, I still play my favorites from back in the day.

Good way to pass time when there is a slow part of the day or if the weather is shitty.

AmandaYVR · Answer

It's not about age. It's about moderation. What other things are being neglected because of game playing?

Ez-Bri-Z · Answer

Why would they need to stop? It's great stress relief and a fun time spent with the kids. As long as it isn't taking over their life then it should be fine..

Medicalbug · Answer

The key to things like these is always moderation and not age. If people like to play games instead of watching Netflix or football or whatever then they should do so.
If they come home from work, walk like a zombie to their computer/console and then say nothing as they stay up half the night playing just to rise a few hours later to repeat the process - well you’d better be prepared to enjoy a solo life.

ElvenMr · Answer

I used to be a gamer.. I no longer call myself that, because i rarely play games anymore, for whatever reason i no longer enjoy them that much. And i don't want a possible girlfriend to think, because i said "im a gamer" i sit at home all the time playing games.

It was a cool hobby for a while for me. Maybe occasionally if we get together with friends we play a few games, but that's it. I would rather spend time with a girlfriend, or friends or doing other things, then play a videogame.

However when i was growing up i used gaming as a learning tool to learn English.

McKellar · Answer

I don't think that's required.

I still play video games, but I don't game it out 24/7 non-stop. There are other enjoyments in life which I like to do & responsibilities which do require my attention. Not too long ago I did purchased the game Cyber Punk 2077. I did purchased the game like a month ago, but I haven't played it yet. Since I do own a copy of the game,... I'll play it when I have the time. I know I'll play it & produce gameplay commentary videos from the game & upload it onto my youtube channel for the fun of things. As of right now there are other things & games which require my attention,... I own a copy of it, it's not going anywhere,... and I know I'll get to it when I get the time.

loves2learn · Answer

Why should they have to stop? It’s a hobby they grew up with and enjoy and can do with their kids.

erandal · Answer

I almost missed this question as I was too busy playing Halo Infinite. I am very curious why you would ask this question. I am in my 50's and I have no intention of stopping playing video games, ever.

Coolguy33989 · Answer

I'll be playing video games till the day I die. It's the most fun form of entertainment. When will people stop sitting on their ass and watching TV? Most Americans do. There's people that can't even solve a simple puzzle in video games. Such puzzles engage my mind and allow me to think. It's also more challenging to finish a lot. It enhances your reflex skills and in some games you have to think quickly. I'd rather do that any day than just sit on my ass and watch TV or movies. It's a hobby.

DizzyDesii · Answer

I would prefer that if he's trying to date me that he's already stopped playing games. Its fine if we occasionally do a dancing or racing game a few times a year. But i do not want to date someone who games daily/weekly. I prefer to date men age 23+. After college, i wouldn't be as understanding to why a guy still games a lot

WindAtMyBack · Answer

There is no reason to stop playing video games at any age unless they're an addicted no-lifer who spends their time playing games instead of experiencing life. If they are a no-lifer, then they should have quit long ago.

It was old farts my age and older who invented video games and popularized them. Probably most of the people who got the whole things started are still playing.

Boasicea922 · Answer

Never. But I do think you need to learn how to prioritize your time between responsibilities and leisure. My husband struggles with that. I feel like I’m nagging after he’s sat playing his game from the time he wakes up until he goes to bed. I have wasted so many weekends because I can’t get him off the couch.

Jaximus-Lion · Answer

Ummm! Never 🤷‍♂️. I don't stop playing because am old, i would be old if i stopped playing. My dad is 70 years old and he still plays Red Alert & Yuri's Revenge, Need for Speed, Titres. Soon am gonna teach him Minecraft so he can play with his grandson (My nephew). He is having fun and he is not bothering anyone and he does his job at home. Am will be playing until i get blind, no one can stop me nor change my mind.

God_of_Thunder · Answer

Why should you stop? Video games are just like any other form on entertainment, such as watching a movie, or reading a book.

As long as it doesn't take precedence over other obligations, and/or become an addiction, then it's perfectly fine to indulge in your free time.

I still play games, in addition to having a girlfriend, working full time, and taking care of the kids. The kids love it when I game with them.

Anonymous · Answer

I think video games actually sharpens the mind because it does rely on vision, hearing and your reaction time. I don't see 70 year old's playing video games but people who are 70 years old or 80 years old didn't have gaming consoles when they were growing up in the 1960s. I think Atari and Pac-Man were one of the first video games, or it could have been that game with two lines and a circle (ball) portraying a game of tennis. I grew up in the late 90s with Nintendo and Sega. I eventually bought a PS1 in 1997, PS2 in 2002, PS3 in 2008, PS4 in 2013 and a PS5 in 2021. When I need to relax and get my mind off stuff it's a nice way to relax.

Cherry234 · Answer

There's no age limit to stop playing them. Do what you want with your free time.

FunkyMonkee · Answer

Nothing wrong with PLAYING video games, as long as it doesn't rule your life and become your life's goal! I LOVE playing cards and shooting pool but, decide to stop for a good while after a few hours of it. Partly because I DO have other things I need to deal with, in life.

MysticDevice · Answer

Never. Its a hobby. Most games are targeted at adults anyway cause most are rated M.

I get why some people are turned off by it but at the end of the day everyone needs a hobby. As long as it doesn't get in the way of a job or relationship it shouldn't be an issue

AdithyaR · Answer

Whenever they want. I have people in my Destiny 2 clan who are married and have kids. Even couples who game together.
It's all about moderation. If they can balance their life and have leisure time for gaming, that person is mature and we'll rounded. It's all about balance.
I believe that if something brings you joy, you shouldn't let it go.

FinalFantasyBro · Answer

There isn't exactly a set age for someone to stop playing video games, it more of the said individual if he or she doesn't find enjoyment in gaming anymore. If you don't find gaming fun anymore you don't have to keep playing them there are tons of other hobbies you can find enjoyment in but on the other hand if you still love playing video games but is afraid that people are judging you for being an adult trust me just annoy them and keep playing your game.

Xtcy2083 · Answer

Never! :) I still play computer (not video) games, and they're fun. Why should anyone stop doing what they enjoy just because they've reached a certain age? Where's the sense in that?

jennifer_bloom · Answer

I think anybody can play video games if they have time for it. I know an Ivy League doctor in his late 30s who plays Nintendo with his Ivy League wife, so when you get accepted into Yale like him, you can tell us Nintendo players are dumb,

Smashingdoozy · Answer

Err never? If you like them then keep playing them.

dustybiker · Answer

A small percentage with addictive personalities need to watch themselves, but otherwise it’s your free time enjoy it.

NormaTavish · Answer

Adults should do what makes them happy. Not what they think others judge them by. Be confident enough to do your item thing… if playing games is your hobbies then fine.

Mango-man · Answer

Never if it is really only in their free time after they had done all the work and other important information things. Someone watches TV, reads book or crafts something so why couldn't they play videogames every once in a while?

Panicatthediscosmom · Answer

This sounds like at a certain point in life adults aren't allowed to have fun anymore... I mean fun comes in various forms.

TacosRAwesome · Answer

As long as they spend time dealing with responsibilities adults deserve to have hobbies too and I don't see much difference between someone fishing as a hobby and someone playing video games as a hobby, to give an example.

snowboarder720 · Answer

Never. Video games made me curious about electronics when I was a kid. People should never stop playing video games. The real question should be when should everyone pick up the hobby of video games.

drdank518 · Answer

As long as you are still fulfilling your real life obligations and responsibilities, paying your bills, working, etc.. I'll be playing video games till God calls my name

jaybee281 · Answer

I secretly hope anyone you know who happens to die dies while playing video games - Again to clarify - I'm not hoping someone dies I'm specifically talking about how they're going out

Adam1978 · Answer

There is no reason for them to do so, as long as they take their responsibility first they can play as much as they want on the remaining time. Or not at all if they choose too.

ChrisMaster69 · Answer

Well it’s good for hand eye coordination  it keeps the brain active anyone who was say 30 or below In the1980’s likely still plays them. there is not limit. Why should there be?

Outofthegrey · Answer

So long as it isn't a hinderance to their livelihood its like any other hobby.  I dont get why grown men skateboard, but I'm not knocking it just because I dont like it.

Puppystarfish23 · Answer

Your never too old. Life is too short to stop having fun

MCheetah · Answer

Whenever they want. Games aren't a "kids" thing like some foolish people believe.

scentoflavender · Answer

Why would they need to stop? I still break out my snes on a montly basis. We grew up with them too ya know.

Joshua_L_Blackmon · Answer

its so childish to ask , what should adults do.. , adults are independent agents.. they ought to take care of themselves and aside from that do what the fuck they want to do...

HighValue · Answer

Never.  Get a job working in schools if you like gaming. Then with all the vacation you will have time for an SO, work, and plenty of gaming too. :)

NathanDavis · Answer

121 years old... yes, I think there should be a limit

BeMuse · Answer

There's no reason why anyone should stop playing video games. Just play them in moderation regardless of age.

Sirenboobzilla · Answer

Why would we need to stop? My partner and I are in our mid 20's and we play together

Red_Arrow · Answer

When they drop dead. Until then, if that is what they like, then they should enjoy it.

dc_rogers · Answer

I was reading through all the comments. Everything from never to priorities. It has all been said, and all are very good opinions on this! 😊

HawkPerception · Answer

Demonizing video games is outdated and pathetic. Do what you enjoy doing. Just make sure to balance and prioritize real life matters.

HazyDaze63 · Answer

Why would there ever be a need for them to stop? It's actually a good way to keep the brain active and the joints limber.

The_Shadow_Dweller · Answer

Till death, do us part. A marriage between video games and adults.

mona_jin · Answer

like by 50. Some 40yo ytbers are still going strong but I don't know anybody over 50 and frankly I don't wanna

sheikalana · Answer

I think people of any age can play videos games whenever they want as long as they do it in moderation.

exitseven · Answer

They should play as long as they want to. I played a lot more when I was younger but once in a while I can play mario Karts and Doom.

What age do you think adults should stop playing video games?

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What age do you think adults should stop playing video games?

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