The question of whether gaming is a waste of time is one that gamers have been defending themselves against for 40 years — and the answer has become more nuanced as the medium has matured. The waste of time camp argues that excessive gaming is associated with social isolation, poor academic performance, and addictive behaviour patterns that mirror those of substance abuse — the WHO has officially recognised gaming disorder as a medical condition. The gaming is valuable camp argues that video games develop problem-solving skills, spatial reasoning, hand-eye coordination, and social skills through online multiplayer. Games like The Last of Us and Red Dead Redemption 2 deliver narrative experiences of genuine artistic and emotional depth. The esports industry generates billions and employs thousands. Is gaming a waste of time?
