Tabletop Games Still Have The Edge: Reasons Video Games Still Lag Behind Board and Card Games

What does it mean to be a ‘gamer.’ In recent years, if you mentioned the term, you were referring to those who play video games. However, entertainment works in cycles; what was will be again. Such is the case with board games. Board games reigned supreme for decades until video games came on the scene in the eighties. Likewise, video games enjoyed decades of supremacy, but lately, board games have been making a huge comeback. Why do board games (still) have the edge on video games?

Intimacy

Sure, with current day technology, you can play a video game with a person who is sitting halfway across the globe. It’s pretty neat to share the screen remotely, but those who are playing board games together are in the same room. There is something to be said about the intimacy of play. As with card games, you can play poker against people online but it doesn’t compare to playing head-to-head with just a bit of elbow between you and the next player.

Price

Video gamers need to pay to play. Video games have always been significantly more expensive. While the in-game technology is way more advanced, the novelty may be waning. For a fraction of the price, you can challenge your brain, exact strategy, and enjoy the intrinsic feeling of winning. Add the fact that you can buy several board games for the price of one video game, and it seems like a no brainer when it comes to which choice provides more bang for your buck.

Physicality

Video gamers handle a joystick, and in the case of Nintendo Wii, paddles, pads, and other physical controls, yet as far as the majority of game play is concerned, there is little physicality taking place. And while a board game is not akin to playing a sport, it does require tactile interaction with pieces and the board. Some would argue that board game require more brain activity due to the physics of play.

Interaction

Sure, gamers get together at friends’ houses, talk online, and gather at conferences, but as mentioned, the logistics of game play does not afford much interaction. However, entire cafes are devoted toward the enterprise of gathering for board game play. People are gathering to play card games, chess, checkers, and a range of other games. Best of all, the games are there waiting to be played. Unlike an arcade, players don’t have to invest much money to play. For the price of a latte, you can sit and play for hours with friends and family.

Future

According to crowdfunding data, board games raised more money than video games in 2015. Board games associated with the Kickstarter platform raised an upward of $80 million dollars, double the amount raised by those with video game aspirations. It’s theorized that more people are likely to back board games due to the reduced development time and a lower chance of failure. As mentioned, entertainment moves in cycles, but for now board games have a place on top.

Bio – Matthew Roberts grew up as a big fan of video games. Since his kids came along however he has rediscovered the joys of family game night; without a controller in site! He enjoys sharing his gaming and family adventures through blogging.