KOCHI: Gaming is the best way to pass time. It also increases my capability to think and compete,” says Pawan, who has been gaming since he was seven years old.Pawan is currently pursuing his Masters degree in Business Administration. Though the 21-year-old gamer reads books and watches television, he prefers playing games as it helps him find solutions and de-stress.
“Call of Duty and FIFA are my favourite games. Arknemesis Gaming Center in Nungambakkam is my favourite gaming centre. My friends and I play there all day and we still don’t get bored. The amazing ambience and the competitive spirit of my friends keeps me going,” he says, adding “Gaming strengthens friendship.
There is a saying that like-minded people attract, and the same happened to me. I have made new friends because of our mutual passion for gaming, and our bonding has become stronger since then.” When asked if he finds time to spend with his family, he said that he manages to find time for both his family and his passion.
Pawan wants to create a game that challenges people, makes them think hard, and is difficult to solve. “In my game, the player will be a mutant and will also have the power to heal himself. The story will circle around him taking revenge from people who killed his family.”“I also like outdoor games like basketball, cricket and swimming. I love catching up with friends in cafes and restaurants, and travelling,” he says. Pawan spends around three hours a day on video games. “Whenever I feel low and I win a game, it lifts my mood and encourages me to go on,” he shares.
One of the most important virtues he learnt from playing games is time management. It has helped him allocate time to his family, friends and education. He says that nowadays he is not able to spare much time for gaming as he has to handle his shop and the increasing pile of college assignments.
Talking about pros and cons of gaming, Pawan says that gaming enables one to communicate with machines and other electronic items, it provides a chance to explore fascinating worlds, it helps to relive stress, and helps one bond with other people sharing the same passion. “But as we know, every coin has a dark side. Playing games for long hours can have serious health issues and can also take away all your time. So, one should know how to maintain a balance,” he says.