A teacher clicks through a slideshow, outlining the day’s lesson. But across the room, a familiar scene is unfolding. Students are glued to their screens, tucking them under desks and behind notebooks, as they tap away: engrossed in the world of their favorite video game. 

What was once a niche hobby has turned into a significant part of modern entertainment and culture, especially for Generation Z. From nostalgic picks to newly discovered favorites, people are often drawn to video games that reflect their personalities and interests. 

As video games continue to connect people and create communities, they impact aspects of players’ lives, both socially and emotionally. Palo Alto High School psychology teacher Christopher Farina talks about the psychological effects that gaming can have on adolescents. 

“Video games, when they’re played collaboratively, can really provide a big social opportunity for people to interact with each other,” Farina said. “It could foster teamwork and collaboration and those kinds of things, which are generally pretty good.”

However, Farina emphasizes the importance of balance.

“The downside is more just, the opportunity cost,” Farina said. “What are you not doing if you’re playing video games? Video games in moderation can be a really beneficial thing. Anything in excess is harmful.”  

Minecraft

Many people play video games because they cultivate a community built on a common interest. The creator of the Paly Senior Minecraft Server, senior Giacomo Resmini, started the account and server as a way to bring the community of minecraft players together.

“I started this server because a couple of friends in my AAR [Advanced Authentic Research] class thought we should start an AAR server that we would all be in,” Resmini said. “And as time went on, we wanted to add the whole Paly group.” 

While many people play video games with friends they already know, these platforms are also an easy way to meet new people.

“The thing that keeps me playing this game is probably the relationships I’ve made through the game,” Resmini said. “I know a ton of friends online because of bigger online servers and people in school I can connect with, even if I’m far away.”

“Minecraft” is a game that can be played in either creative or survival mode. Creative mode provides free access to all blocks, mobs [non-player characters] and cheat codes to perform certain actions like flying and teleporting. Survival mode challenges players by limiting their health, which can be decreased by falling, eating certain foods and mob attacks. 

“I feel like one thing that’s the best for new players in “Minecraft” is to stretch your ideas and your ability to think,” Resmini said. 

The creator of the server believes that everyone should give “Minecraft” a try. 

“I’d recommend it to everyone,” Resmini said. “I know it’s great for anyone who enjoys creative freedom.”

Roblox

As the video game community grows, many new games are becoming popular. According to CivicScience, a consumer analytics platform, in recent years the mobile game “Roblox” has grown in popularity, as 48% of Americans age 13-24 years old played “Roblox” in 2023, in comparison to 42% in 2022 and 12% in 2020. 

Juliana Sandoval, a senior at Paly, enjoys the variety of games Roblox has to offer. 

“I like the fact that they’re [games/servers] all different. I think that’s what keeps me coming back and playing,” Sandoval said. 

Aside from the recommended age requirement of nine years old, “Roblox” is an all inclusive game. 

“I play a lot of dress up games, but there’s also horror games,” Sandoval said. “I love tycoons a lot. I don’t see a reason not to play. There’s a game for everyone.” 

For Sandoval, part of the appeal of “Roblox” is its nostalgic feeling.

“I play ‘Roblox’ not just because I have fun doing it but also because I like to hold onto things I loved doing as a kid,” Sandoval said. “It makes me feel more like myself.”

Brawl Stars

Another game rising to popularity in the mobile play scene is “Brawl Stars.” According to Statista, in April 2024, “Brawl Stars” generated 10.91 million downloads worldwide in comparison to 2.62 million the year before. 

 “Brawl Stars” is a multiplayer game in which the main goal is for players to win matches against rival teams, earn trophies, and level up in order to unlock new characters. 

Paly senior Aaron Nance was first introduced to the game by a friend at summer camp and has not stopped playing since. 

“Well I have to admit that the game is pretty addictive,” Nance said. “They have lots of updates that keep players interested and have lots of collaborations.”

While many video games are free to download, some have in-game purchases and even monthly subscriptions. In “Brawl Stars,” in-app purchases allow players early access to certain aspects of the game and higher ranks. 

“I spend like 10 bucks a month,” Nance said. “A lot of people probably see that as a problem but as long as you find a balance like it can be it can be okay and as long as you’re healthy, I think it’s fine.”

First Person Shooter

Paly Freshman Tucker Gracon saves his allowance to spend on “Valorant,” a first-person tactical hero shooter video game.  

“I’ve probably spent close to $4,000 [USD],” Gracon said. “Valorant’s a free game. Most FPSs [First Person Shooter Games] are free, but there’s in-game transactions for skins and rewards that you can earn.”

Although Gracon also plays video games to keep in touch with online friends, he finds that FPS’s provide more than just entertainment.

“I like the adrenaline I get from being able to compete with others for higher ranks and higher competitive spots,” Gracon said. “I like the idea of being able to work as a team and take down another team.”

The thrill of first- person shooter games, along with the strategic aspects interests many.

“I think ‘Fortnite’ is such a spectacular game because it’s mostly a game where you have to strategize, and that’s a lot of fun,” senior Ramses Luna said.