Our Favorite Hard-Hitting Lessons from Video Games
Books are great, but games…that stuff hits.
July 27, 2025 / by Louigi Balao / 4 mins read
I said this before, and I will say it again: Video games have an incredible way of teaching. Sometimes, they teach through story, others through gameplay, or even indirectly, as soon as we turn the game off—they leave a lasting impression. Because of this, we will be listing our favorite hard-hitting lessons that stuck with us.
"You're only human."
From Rockstar Games Official GIPHY
In Red Dead Redemption 2, Arthur Morgan’s journey reminds us that everyone has vulnerabilities, regardless of how strong or capable someone appears. Despite his tough exterior and relentless survival skills, Arthur’s story is a powerful reminder of mortality and the importance of reflecting on your life choices before it’s too late.
“Things may seem hectic, but finding the right spot for your blocks will clear things out.”
From Michelle Porucznik Official GIPHY
Life doesn’t always give us the perfect pieces, and Tetris captures that perfectly. That simple block game you played in the past teaches you that. You might not always get what you want, but by staying calm and making the best of what you have, you can clear obstacles and create space for better opportunities.
"Winning isn't everything."
From Pokémon Official GIPHY
The Pokémon franchise teaches us that even with preparation, losses are inevitable. But each loss offers a chance to reflect, improve, and grow stronger. Ash Ketchum himself lost a crazy bunch, but his ability to learn from his defeats and press forward highlights that perseverance always wins in the long run.
Cuz after all, there are no winners if there aren’t losers.
"We can find joy in odd things."
From PowerWash Simulator Official GIPHY
Who knew cleaning could be so satisfying? PowerWash Simulator proves that joy doesn’t always come from grand adventures or flashy rewards. Sometimes, simple tasks and the satisfaction of completing them offer the greatest comfort. It’s a reminder that small wins are just as important as big ones.
"Everyone thinks they are right."
From Steam Official Website
In Town of Salem, the challenge isn’t just about what you know—it’s about convincing others of it. The game highlights how perception often trumps truth in social settings. Just like in real life, people’s opinions are shaped by what they see and hear, even if it’s far from the actual truth; that is why there is so much fighting in the world.
"Perseverance through failure"
From Bandai Namco Official GIPHY
Dark Souls is infamous for making players fail, over and over again. But that’s where the lesson lies: persistence. Every defeat teaches you something new, and every small victory feels earned. It’s a game that rewards patience, strategy, and resilience—important qualities in life. Now go stand up and challenge Malenia Blade of Miquella once again.
"Loyalty comes at a cost."
From Steam Official Website
Tommy Angelo’s journey in Mafia: Definitive Edition teaches us that loyalty isn’t always rewarded with kindness, especially when the opposite party is unhappy. The game’s story explores how sticking by the wrong people or making choices for the sake of loyalty can come with devastating consequences. It’s a reminder that loyalty should be earned and never blindly given.
"Choices shape your life."
From Larian Studios Official GIPHY
Every choice you make matters. Not just in the matter of speech but in action as well. The game emphasizes that your decisions directly and indirectly affect the outcome of your story. Much like in life, you’re constantly shaping your path, and every action has consequences—some you won’t see until much, much later. That is why it is essential to look after one's health, better now than later. This is why the mWell Power Watch is a great accessory for your journey to a healthier life.
AUTHOR
Louigi Balao
Content Writer
Louigi, better known as Gi, is a content writer for Next Upgrade’s Tech and Gaming sections. In his free time, he enjoys long strolls in his house, loves fantasizing about anime ships that will never bear fruit, and constantly complains about his scuffed Korean backdashes. If you need a quick 3 AM chit-chat, he is your guy.
