Are video games childish?

Question

And if so then what's the difference between video games and watching TV? The only difference is that you can control your TV, just how people that watch TV progress on their favorite show, others progress on their favorite game, people play board games and that's just another form of games, is it childish cause it's a game cause it's only a form of entertainment like television or board games, like bar games or any other choice of entertainment, although there's the controversy that some believe that video games specifically is childish and nothing else compares which I never understood.

MisterWack · Accepted Answer

I’ve stated this multiple times before and it is getting a little bit annoying repeating myself…

There are video game ESRB rating systems which place games in specific categories and says what each game may include. Obviously ‘Mario Kart 8 Deluxe’ & ‘Mario Party’ are designated for children though can be fun for all ages at parties while a game like ‘Left 4 Dead 2’ is for mature audiences that can handle gore, blood, depictions of guns & weaponry & violent slaying of scary zombies in scary settings.

LA Noire is a game about LAPD in the 1940s trying to solve crimes & has a lot of adult themes while having a great story with a brilliant cast of characters to make the world seem almost ‘real’. It is very Mature (see what I did there?) in its setting, messaging, historical basis, and overall tone. Along with having humor only adults / 17+ would get & appreciate.

There can’t be a game for everyone and to say “video games are childish” would place all games as intended for children which isn’t the case. ‘Conker’s Bad Fur Day’ might look “childish” though all the fans know that game is not appropriate for children.

Bottomline, don’t let others control what YOU (the reader) enjoys doing. Play your Mario Karts, Asteroids, Helldivers 2, and Halo in peace. They should mind their own business as you stick to yours.

mobiusforniner · Accepted Answer

Yes, and necessarily so. I stopped playing video games in 2007. Started adulting. You know, got a career, invested in real estate, started big hobbies. I had this vision of myself being the ultimate cool dad. But when my kids started growing up, they didn’t care for the adventure. Or go karts. Or dirt bikes. I tried over and over again to involve them in such things, hoping they’d share the same passion and excitement as I did. But instead, I found myself drifting away from them. My kids would talk about various games and characters I knew nothing about. They found connection in friends at school and pretty soon dad fell by the wayside as old and uninteresting. I sit alone in my garage, tinkering with the toys I thought my kids would love

I learned an important life lesson- love is letting go of what we want. I wanted so badly to enjoy sharing my skills and passions collectively with my kids. In reality, it wasn’t what they wanted

so i splurged and bought modern game consoles and educated myself on what is now almost two decades behind on the gaming scene. I type this while playing games with my kids. Dad is suddenly much cooler and fun.

I learned, it’s important to stay a kid if you wanna have a relationship with them. Sure the other toys collect dust. But when my kids are ready, I will be too

Kayla45 · Accepted Answer

Video games are not childish. They are a form of entertainment and art, much like films or books, with a wide range of genres and experiences that cater to different audiences. While some games are designed for children, many others are created with complex themes, storytelling, and gameplay that appeal to adults. Video games can provide intellectual challenges, social interaction, creative expression, and even serve as a form of relaxation or stress relief.

In recent years, gaming has grown into a mainstream cultural activity, with people of all ages enjoying it. There are also professional esports competitions, educational games, and immersive experiences that push the boundaries of traditional entertainment. Just as with other forms of media, it depends on the content and how individuals engage with it. Therefore, labeling video games as “childish” overlooks the diversity and potential they offer for different age groups and interests.

It's only “childish” if you play a game that’s literally intended for children for babies.

Samantha36 · Accepted Answer

Before I moved In with my now husband, I knew he had a ps4 but I rarely saw him play it. Then after I moved in I noticed that he was on it abit more often but he always seemed embarrassed and shut it down when I came home etc. I asked why and he said that he didn't want me to think he was a child. I felt bad because it's obvious it's just his way of winding down. He works 40 plus hours a week so why shouldn't he. The only 2 things that would bother me was if he was playing r18 games in front of the children and I want us to go bed together every night. Apart from that, happy gaming.

Cinematic Lily · Accepted Answer

Video games aren't inherently childish. Like TV shows or movies, they're diverse forms of entertainment offering a wide range of experiences for different audiences. Just as TV shows can range from children's cartoons to complex dramas, video games can vary from simple, family-friendly games to mature, story-driven experiences. They're a medium for storytelling, creativity, and strategy, just like traditional games or television. Whether video games seem childish depends on the content and the individual's perspective. Embracing a variety of entertainment forms enriches our understanding and appreciation of different art forms and narratives. 🎮📺

1

Maybe_Maybe_not · Answer

Enough answers in this thread already to break down the question and its implications. Additionally, some cultures have a problem with the concept of playing, be it video games, board games or the very concept of game in general, probably because they represent infancy, probably because they are seen as improductive. Probably because they are viewed in opposition to seriousness.

Which is an ironical and outdated take, considering how much gamification is a thing in pedagogy for adults. It is very much productive when considering teaching skills

LifeHitMeandRan · Answer

Yes, they are childish. That's the point! They are meant to provide an escape. Nothing wrong with playing videogames at any age as long as you do not neglect your health or obligations to do so.

As long as you take care of business and do not neglect those around you that you love dearly, then playing video games in your spare time is no different than someone who goes to the gym, takes dance classes or goes to the club. The point is to unwind and relax. As long as no laws are being broken and nobody is hurt, who cares?

Astarlessnightsky · Answer

The question is what do people mean by childish (besides being another phrase for "I don't like it")

Because most video games are not suitable for children, or young children to be exact. Not only because of themes involving violence, nudity or drugabuse. But also because of the complexity, a child cannot grasp.

So the majority of games is made specifically for teens and adults. Making it rather un-childish.

Natasha1995 · Answer

I never liked to play video games. I'm not against it per definition, but I think it can absorb so much of your attention that it becomes detrimental to other things.

If done right and with care, sure, why not? But especially teenagers or young adults should take care. I'm talking from personal experience. I help teenagers and young adults (pre university) with subjets they don't understand well: maths, English literature, foreign languages... Whenever I have seen a big change for the worse, from one year to the next, 8 out of 10 they were so absorbed with video games that it got in the way of their studies. The rest were emotional problems.

As for adults - which I think your question refers to - they can spend their time any way they like. It's just that I prefer to spend my time differently.

jshm2 · Answer

There is often confusion about "video games" as in they aren't "videos" and they are often far more than mere "games".

You wouldn't consider a game of chess as "childish", mainly as you understand all the work that goes into making the board and pieces. Plus all the skill and industry around the game itself. The digital games industry supersedes chess many fold.

But the reality is that people calling games "childish" are actually calling you it, and trying to denigrate you. They know little about the technology and software around gaming, but are taking a direct dig at you, as gaming is what you're doing, and they are not.

Little_Bumblebee · Answer

Many people see that if kids like something, then it's childish.
The same can be said about drawing, and art in general. People look down on it because so many kids draw and enjoy it.

However, I do find it childish if people don't know how to control their emotions, and break stuff, yell all the time etc. THAT is childish.
Also, if they prioritize gaming over any IRL relationships or responsibilities.

Kori1236 · Answer

I don’t view them as childish. When in balance with life they’re great for stress relief. Now if someone can’t prioritize other important things or can’t give up video games there’s a problem. If it becomes an addiction there’s a problem. But the overall view of video games being childish I don’t understand.

Account · Answer

In my opinion, they are not, but I am sure they are perceived as such. Anime are also not childish in my opinion, but I am sure there are people who disagree. I don't mind it though, they can think what they want it doesn't bother me

Seinna · Answer

No, it's like any hobby, though your comparison to tv is a good one because games don't bring any value aside from pure enjoyment. That said, no they are not inherently childish. What is childish is when adults spend all their time playing games/watching tv to the detriment of their education/work/relationships so they get left behind compared to their peers. Unfortunately games can be pretty addictive.

itsannalee · Answer

No, they are not. It’s better for woman to having a man who likes video games than likes to hangout outside with boys and cheating. I’m 32 and still watch Anime.

DeeDeeDeVour · Answer

I beg to differ.  I consider video games to be among many other "spices in life" especially if you enjoy playing 'em with a partner.

Anonymous · Answer

It depends on why you are playing videos. If you're a broke loser living in your parent's house playing video games all day to escape reality then that is childish. If you suffer from a mental illness or have a reason why you can't work or do anything then it's not. If you're making money you're established video games then it is fine.

BetaBucks · Answer

99% of the people talking shit about gaming, spend their days mindlessly consooming other forms of screen media. At least videogames force you to use your brain. I couldn't care less if it's childish in some people's eyes. As long as you aren't causing damage to your real life because you spend so much time gaming.

_Highway · Answer

Video games are just as much a form of entertainment as watching TV or a movie. In fact I argue more so as they require direct user interaction, which is a form of mental stimulation.

If games are childish, then I'm a child. Would much prefer to play a game, then binge watch a TV show, any day.

Nifrayu · Answer

There are many games that are targeted towards children and don't catch much interest in adults except as a way to play with our kids. But the opposite is also true. There are games that are targeted to adults and that most children wouldn't appreciate.

Dargil · Answer

To me, they are just as productive, mature and useful as masturbation. They pass and waste time. They rank right there with porn and weed.

LiamS95 · Answer

The video games aren't childish but the person's that obsessively play them non stop night and day are definitely childish.

buzzword · Answer

The people that say that just suck at video games. It's how they cope for having bad hand eye coordination and lack luster problem solving skills.

Berethor · Answer

Blood for the blood god, skulls for the skull throne! :)

morganherrel · Answer

From what I know about most video games on the market, they appeal to a primitive mind. I think it can be a beautiful form of entertainment in small doses, especially when this can be shared with loved ones. But any more than that is a failure of mental development or a sign of mental illness imho.

There is mature and sophisticated TV programming that has no counterpart in the video gaming market. Otherwise yes, trashy TV = trashy video games; control or no control.

nron987 · Answer

I wouldn’t say they’re childish. I enjoyed video games a lot up until a few years ago, no time anymore.

Anonymous · Answer

Some regard games as unproductive and a waste of time - just play. They just dont get them at all and tend to shame people who devote time to them as childish.
But their superficial view of the passtime does not make it less relevant to those who do like it and get something out of it.

midnightmoon05 · Answer

Yeah … well … some are okay but time consuming so not good for responsible adults to play.

DrPepper12 · Answer

It's just games. That's all. Calling any game childish says more about them than the game player. Games are fun!!!

genericname85 · Answer

there sure are childish videogames. there's also adult ones. just like there are childish and adult tv programmes.

jojouzumaki · Answer

I don’t think it is. It’s one of the few things where people just wanted to take a break and have fun.

Though, it is indeed childish and definitely not good when aspects of your life get neglected due to an addiction of it.

verified · Answer

think it's mainly those who don't understand/enjoy gaming who consider it childish. Some people also look down on it so calling it childish seems to be their dumb way to put gamers down.

BrumTownBossman · Answer

No i play video games almost daily and it’s sometimes the most peaceful and therapeutic thing to ever do, although sometimes i tend to sit there for hours listening to music whilst playing being depressed because i never have anyone to game with 😭😅

Jennz6 · Answer

No, it’s better to play with your video game than chasing another girl and cheating on me 💃

Unit1 · Answer

No.

But they are a good waste of time, specifically if you're trying to kill time until you can start living your life on your terms.

Sometimes video games train our reflexes or strategic thinking skills.

DaBiggestBird · Answer

No of course not. Childish people are childish

Lokiion · Answer

No they aren’t childish same thing with tv not being childish it’s just entertainment

sirderpsalot123 · Answer

It's just a form of entertainment like watching TV.

NathanDavis · Answer

nope... but, there are childish ways to go about everything and anything...

paledreams · Answer

To a degree and I'm 30 🎮 I don't game - I may make a rare exception if the next GTA is on PC and is any good

beefcakebradybatson · Answer

Maybe, but my 68-year-old, six-three,275-lb. best bud Jamie Logsdon is an avid gamer.

Tomisworthless · Answer

Video games are my escape from a trash existence

robocop666 · Answer

RPG games have a large story and 20-60 hours of gameplay. How is this childish this is advanced and mostly for adults.

Dat-Alpha-Lion · Answer

Considering the existence of M-rated games, I’d like to think the answer is no.

msc545 · Answer

Playing games means you are not working at that moment, and in a Capitalist society like the US, not working for any amount of time is a sin, just as vacations are sinful.

dragoblack · Answer

No, video games are just entertainment and great for the brain

laraWM · Answer

No they are not

straightmax12 · Answer

No, because I play video games too. And most games that come out are meant for adults to play and the stories in the games are adult themed too.

PrettyCrumblBb · Answer

Hahahahahahahha

Paris13 · Answer

Can Be Obsessive. lolxxoo

WhitneySnow · Answer

No. Not at all.

TheSpaceGnome · Answer

No, only idiots think gaming is childish.

Simslover92 · Answer

Not at all. It's often a way to relieve stress.

grega239 · Answer

No. Theyre fun

Agape93 · Answer

Nope

Julia987 · Answer

no not at all i m a gamer

TheStaleMarshmellow · Answer

I'll be 80 playing video games.

Anonymous · Answer

No, lots of video games are not made for kids.

kaucky1 · Answer

Not if it's pornpgraphic

jahaims · Answer

Nah.

Ramithefitnessbear · Answer

Definitely not.

Are video games childish?

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