Meaningful Life Lessons We Got From Video Games

Have you ever encountered the stereotype that video games are merely mindless distractions? Contrary to this belief, developers and their creations have provided countless enjoyable games that entertain and hold lessons—meaningful life lessons. 

It's a reminder not to judge the depth of a game solely by its genre; beneath the surface, profound insights await. With that said, we will list a few titles that have left a mark in our lives because of the lessons they teach. 

1. “We can't change what's done. We can only move on” - Arthur Morgan, Red Dead Redemption 2

From Rockstar Games Official GIPHY

Back in the past, America housed the rugged plain of the Wild West and civilization, and during that era rode our protagonist, Arthur Morgan. Despite his past and questionable present, Arthur strives to become a better version of himself. He acted, learned, and responded to whatever situation he was in. He demonstrated that our actions in the present shape how we are perceived now, not only by ourselves but also by other people. 

The world doesn’t offer a lot of second chances. However, Red Dead Redemption 2 showed how turning a new leaf is never too late. You can choose kindness and integrity. 

2. Don’t worry about stacking up your lines; what matters is the result. - Tetris 

From Denyse Official GIPHY

Tetris is simple, and life is complicated; how can you get something out of a game that requires you to clear out blocks? Despite its simplicity, Tetris holds a profound truth: Life may be chaotic, but with focus, determination, and planning, we can create order from disorder.

Each block represents a challenge or an obstacle, and every line cleared symbolizes progress, no matter how small. Just as it is in life, sometimes all it takes is a strategic opening that allows you to clear out your obstacles, turning an impossible situation into a possible path forward. 

3. Choices and consequences - Witcher 2

From The Witcher Official GIPHY

In the morally gray world of Witcher 2, every decision carries a weight that affects the player and the NPCs across it. If you, playing Geralt, decide to save a monster that begs for its life, you may later find a mauled family slain by the same beast you chose to spare. It may have felt like the right choice at the time, but you now ponder whether it was the right or wrong choice. 

The same can be applied to life; what you do may not immediately affect you, but it can affect others. Whether for good or bad, our decisions leave a lasting imprint on life itself, and Witcher 2 provides insight into how influential those decisions can be. 

At least we don’t need to worry about dark beasts, vampires, or any other mutant in this realm, right? 

4. "This life might not look like much to you, but I'm content and isn't that all that matters?" - Gwilin, Skyrim 

From r/Skyrim Official Reddit post

From slaying dragons to forging alliances, Skyrim is a realm that nurtures adventure. You can level up one specific skill tree or have it all developed; the choice is up to you. The Skyrim game is huge and almost mesmerizing, but with anything and everything, we forget about the little things. 

You will encounter a wood elf named Gwilin as you travel its realm. Apprentice of Temba Wide-Arm, he is situated at the sawmill, living a quiet and simple life. Despite the possibilities that can happen, he is content with what he has. 

When you think about it, life can be the same. Sometimes, while desperately desiring the premium and luxurious things in life, it’s easy to forget what we already have. This little wood elf has bestowed the lesson of contentment and appreciation. It’s never wrong to strive for better things, but you should never forget what you have accomplished. 

Ultimately, video games are more than mere entertainment; they are mirrors reflecting the complexities of the human experience. From the triumphs of victory to the lessons learned in defeat, each game offers a glimpse into the depths of our souls—spoopy but true!