Video games have come along way over the past couple decades. What once meant scrounging up quarters and heading to the arcade moved into homes via systems that attach to televisions as well as personal computers and handheld devices. Not only are many people enjoying playing these games, but they are becoming more and more fun to watch, with millions tuning in to video footage of gaming competitions, such as Major League Gaming’s Columbus Pro Circuit event. A fraction of that number actually showed up in Columbus, OH for the June event.
Aside from the debate of whether “sport” is the right word to describe gaming, with over 22 million hits over Pro Circuit weekend, there’s definitely a spectator interest. Many of these people are gamers themselves, looking for strategy tips. Others may be art fans that simply enjoy the impressive graphics that are present in many of today’s modern games. Others may be friends and family of gamers who are looking to gain understanding, or see watching the highly skilled gamers as an extension of sitting in their own living rooms watching others play within their own circle.
When one thinks of a gamer, they may not see an athlete, but the two are not entirely different. Quick thinking and good reflexes are often required for both gaming and physical sports. And whether you’re watching football or Final Fantasy, it’s never the same game twice.