10 Things Non-Gamers Don't Understand About Gaming
5. Watching Other People Play Games Is Fun
One of the most prominent sources of bafflement among non-gamers today is the prevalence of players watching other people play video games on platforms such as YouTube, Twitch, and so on.
This is primarily in the form of Let's Plays, where players record themselves playing games, usually complete with their own audio commentary and video accompaniment.
On the surface, many can't understand the utility of watching somebody else play a game when you can just...play the game yourself.
But this entirely discounts several important things. Firstly, the personality of the Let's Play-er goes a long way here.
Secondly, it's a neat way to learn about new games and possibly even experience games that you don't necessarily want to play yourself - anxiety-inducing survival horror games, for instance.
And then there's the social aspect, of connecting with not only the Let's Play-er themselves, but a community of subscribers and followers. It's the fusion of social belonging and entertainment value on which these colossal Let's Play fanbases are built.
While there's ultimately nothing like playing a game for yourself, there can be a tremendous comfort in the welcome familiarity of a recognisable face guiding you through a new game.