When you think about books, what image pops into your head? Dry and dusty tomes covered with cobwebs. Librarians, with fingers on their lips, shush you.
However, adrenaline surges through your veins and your heart pounds at the thought of games. The amazing graphics knock you off your feet. The HD visuals fan your hair back like your couch was sitting on a roller coaster. You can’t turn a page in an atmosphere like that.
But get off that roller coaster sometimes. You should always find time to both read and play. After all, you don’t want to become a mindless zombie from staring at a screen all day.
- A lot of people see gamers as zombies who lack social skills and a life.
- A lot of people like to take pot shots at video games. We gamers don’t need to give these haters more ammo.
- A lot of people don’t know what they’re babbling about.
Tips for Reading Books and Playing Video Games
We can prove that we’re well-read – maybe by starting a blog like me! – and remind others that gamers are just like them.
Here’s some things to keep in mind about balancing these two activities:
1. My Blog Doesn’t Count
Look, I’m flattered that you like it, but it just doesn’t cut it. Of course, that doesn’t mean you should stop showering me with praise.
2. Dialogue and Subtitles Don’t Count as Reading
Yeah, not even really wordy games. That includes old-fashioned text games too.
3. The Best of Both Worlds
You can start reading books based on video games. Check out the Halo Books if you’re into sci-fi.
4. Gateway Drugs
You know, those books based on video games could be like a gateway drug. Start with these and then you can go on to real literature and war stories, like the The Red Badge of Courage.
5. Books Aren’t Saints Either
Are you a teen? Still not convinced you should read? Well, teen novels have more swearing than video games, according to one study. You can get your fill of profanity in book form.
6. Balanced Diet
Don’t get too much of video games or books. Aim for the golden mean.
7. Now get out there and read, zombie!
Video Games Nebula 