Yes, Honey, Grandma Games: A Comedic Yet Serious Look at Ageism in Gaming
As I approach the big 5 — 0, I find myself reflecting on my lifelong passion for gaming. This passion has been both a source of joy and, unfortunately, a battleground where ageism runs rampant.
As a GenX woman with a GenZ daughter who’s also an avid gamer, I’ve witnessed firsthand the divide between generations in the gaming world. But the question that continues to nag at me is: why are older generations seemingly unwanted in a culture where we make up a significant portion of the player base?
Demographics: Let’s Do the Math:
Ew, math…I know. Let’s kick off with some numbers. Gaming demographics have changed more than graphics over the years. In 2020, a Newzoo study dropped some knowledge on us: GenXers (that’s me, ages 40–54), and Baby Boomers (the slightly older pros, ages 55+) made up a whopping 36% of the gaming population. GenZ had some competition from their elders.
But let’s be clear — GenX isn’t here to crash the party with our AARP cards. We’re just saying ‘Hey, we’ve been gaming since Pong, and we’re not planning to retire anytime soon. Let’s play together and make this gaming journey a multi-generational blast!’
Esports: Need More Seasoning
Esports, the competitive gaming scene, is a phenomenon that has taken the world by storm. It’s not just about gaming; it’s a professional industry with lucrative tournaments, sponsorships, and millions in prize money. But there’s a glaring issue here — the lack of representation from older generations, especially women. Esports often feels like it’s been designed exclusively for the spring chickens. When you think of esports, does a 50-year-old gamer or a female gamer come to mind? Probably not. But it’s high time we change that perception and add a dash of salt and pepper to the mix.
My Encounter with Ageism: A TikTok Tale:
Now, I can’t resist sharing a little story that’s both funny and a little disheartening. Just a few days ago, while scrolling through TikTok streams (as most of us gamers do), I stumbled upon an Overwatch session. Naturally, I joined the conversation with fellow viewers. But then came the kicker: “Yo dawg, you’re like 60.” Cue the eye roll. It’s the ageist anthem that plays all too often in the gaming community. My age seemed to eclipse my opinions and experiences in an instant.
Breaking the Ageist Barriers:
Here’s the million-dollar question: How do we break free from this ageist grip in the gaming world?
Embrace the Wisdom: We seasoned gamers bring more than just our old-school consoles to the table. We’ve got wisdom and experience that can rival any player, and it’s time to flaunt it.
Give Props to the Pioneers: Let’s demand more recognition for “seasoned” gamers. We’ve been leveling up in life and gaming since before it was cool. We’ve got the skills and the life experience to bring some serious game to the community.
Ageism — We Call Your Bluff: Those ageist comments that pop up like a Junkrat Rip-Tire? It’s time to call them out. Remind the naysayers that age is just a number, and gaming is about passion and skill.
Build Inclusive Communities: It’s time to create communities that don’t care about age or gender. Whether you’re 15 or 50, she/he/they, if you’ve got the gaming bug, you’re in, like Flynn!
Celebrate Each Other: As OG gamers we need to stand together and raise awareness of our accomplishments. Our achievements and stories are proof of gaming’s timeless appeal, and by uniting, we can spotlight our unique contributions.
It’s Time for a Buff:
Just as game developers recognize the importance of balancing characters and enhancing gameplay, it’s high time we boost the representation of GenX gamers. Gaming is a realm where age is just one more stat on the character sheet. As GenX gamers, we’re a substantial part of this community, and our experiences and perspectives matter. We’re all adventurers on this digital journey, and whether you’re a Gen Z whiz kid or a GenX gaming grandma, your place in this world is secured by your passion and your love for the game.
So, keep those controllers charged, your spirits high, and remember: when someone questions your gaming prowess based on your age, just smile and say, “Yes, honey, Grandma games — and she’s awesome at it!”
