In a world where social gatherings often revolve around games, one writer puts forth a bold assertion: for adults over 12, games should be banished altogether. Emily Watkins, a freelance writer from London, expresses her disdain for activities like Scrabble and ping-pong, advocating instead for more meaningful interactions over casual competition.
The Social Scene: A Game-Free Zone
Recently, during a leisurely catch-up in the park with a friend, Watkins found herself confronted with the unwelcome sight of ping-pong paddles. While she jestingly claims they are no longer speaking, her underlying sentiment is clear: the introduction of games into social settings can feel like a disruption. For her, the essence of friendship lies in genuine conversation, not in frantic rounds of competition.
Watkins argues that games are wholly unnecessary once we reach adulthood. She does concede that professional athletes might have a valid reason to engage in games—after all, they are getting paid for their efforts—but for the average person, the risks of being roped into a game are simply not worth it. “Bat those balls, pucks, packs of cards, spinning bottles and Scrabble boards away from me, please,” she insists, highlighting her desire for unstructured, relaxed interactions.
The Downside of Organised Fun
Games, in her view, do not enhance social situations but rather hinder them. She finds structured activities like quizzes and icebreakers particularly excruciating. The sudden shift from casual conversation to a game, especially with unfamiliar faces, can feel torturous. The excitement of socialising evaporates as the atmosphere becomes charged with competitive tension, leaving her longing for a simpler time spent with a glass of wine or a comforting cup of coffee.
Watkins reflects on how the introduction of a game can quickly turn a cheerful gathering into a nightmarish obligation. “Let’s go round the office and introduce ourselves with two truths and a lie!” she quips, capturing the cringe-worthy essence of forced fun that many can relate to.
The Other Side of the Coin
Despite her strong feelings, Watkins acknowledges the existence of a fervent pro-gaming camp. She has encountered individuals who revel in the thrill of competition, seemingly unbothered by the pressure it brings. These individuals, who take games seriously and can often be seen rallying others into a frenzy of card shuffling or dice rolling, seem to embody a passion that she finds both bewildering and slightly enviable.
Is her aversion to games simply a sign of being pathologically uncompetitive? Perhaps. However, her lack of interest has led to an awareness that true enjoyment can often be found outside the confines of games.
A Call for Connection
At the end of the day, Watkins believes that the real joy in life comes when games are set aside. “Put the paddles down and get me a glass of pinot, please,” she declares, emphasising her preference for relaxation and connection over competition.
Why it Matters
Watkins’ perspective raises important questions about how we choose to connect with one another in a society increasingly obsessed with structured activities. As we navigate our social lives, perhaps it’s worth reconsidering the value of simple conversations over games, urging us to foster genuine connections that go beyond the scoreboard. In an age where social interactions can feel forced or contrived, the call for unadulterated companionship without the interference of competition is not only refreshing but vital for our mental well-being.
