Rediscovering Joy: How Nintendo Games Revived My Inner Child

When I lost my atomic purple Game Boy Color in 1999, it hurt more than I wanted to admit. At just 9 years old, I was trying to grow up too fast. I felt embarrassed to cry, like it made me look childish.

As I got older, I ditched cartoons and started wearing polo shirts instead of graphic tees. My relatives thought I was too old for Pokémon, but I still loved it. I pretended not to care, even though I felt attached to those games.

In an attempt to fit in with my peers, I buried my anxiety and tried to act tough. I played sports, dressed like my favorite rappers, and ignored my true interests. I thought distancing myself from video games would help me seem more mature.

After nearly twenty years, I picked up a Switch in 2017. It was billed as a fun, portable option to enjoy with friends. This week’s announcement of the Switch 2 brought back memories of how reconnecting with Nintendo helped me heal my inner child.

Growing up in South Florida, I felt immense pressure to conform. Many of my friends didn’t embrace vulnerability, which made it hard for me to share how I felt. This experience is common; a 2020 study found that about 75% of young boys feel they must hide their emotions to fit in with societal expectations.

The return of the Switch and the nostalgia it evoked reminded me of those lost years. Video games aren’t just for kids; they offer a way to express creativity and connection, no matter your age. In fact, the global gaming market is projected to reach $300 billion by 2025, showing just how significant this medium has become in our lives.

Ultimately, my story highlights an important truth. Gaming can be a powerful tool for healing and reconnecting with oneself, regardless of societal judgments. Embracing what we love—be it games, art, or anything else—can lead to a fuller, richer life.

For more insights into the evolving perception of video games, check out this report on gaming trends.

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