Newfound Frontier Kitsune | Khriz Mathew Atienza
STC’s first-ever virtual intramurals came in full swing! Online games, including chess, dama, memory games, guessing games and more, were conducted during the event. But when the phrase “virtual sports” is mentioned, what is the first thing that springs to mind? Personally, I anticipated wellknown mobile games, given their prevalence and accessibility among the student body.Speaking of online games, they have become a common indulgence among young people, especially during the COVID-19 pandemic, since going outside is restricted and more people are forced to rely on modern technology. Students have turned to video games as a way to unwind after a long day or week of studying and hard work. According to Newzoo’s Consumer Insights, 74% of Filipino gamers play on their mobiles, whereas 65% play on their personal computers (PC). Both of these options, though, are remarkable and should be recognized. Each of which has its own set of advantages and disadvantages. Mobile games, for example, are lighter and consume less data than PC games. Computer games, on
the other hand, offer more customization features and experiences than those played on handheld devices. Adopting these into next year’s virtual intramurals might be a haven for students who excel at gaming, giving them a platform to show their skill in the sport after a long time of negligence and denial. It would be theoretically feasible for anybody interested in hosting eSports events. Moreover, online games have built-in automated matchmaking systems, reducing the amount of work for organizers. One can simply create a private room and invite players from each team without exiting the game. The length of each match, game mode that will be used, and personalized rules may also be altered. In addition, each game has its own score system, enabling the host to quickly determine the victor at the end of the round. Nonetheless, there is one factor to consider, which is the amount of time for practice. Players need to play many matches to enhance their skills. Doing so, however, may take hours and could lead to detrimental consequences such as eye damage and distraction from their
studies. Online games are not all flashing lights for everyone. Many adults consider this a nuisance to the younger players’ attitudes. For example, disconnecting during a match is discouraged in several games since it is considered a rule violation. Housework and studies are neglected due to this feature. Although the pandemic has plagued us for the past two years, students continue to find ways to loosen up and improve their gaming skills. Next year’s probable “Virtualympics” will be a perfect opportunity for the players to be recognized and to do what they enjoy, if and only if intramurals were to be held virtually next year. But since we are enclosed in a frontier of online activities in these trying times and are less likely to recover in time for the rise of a new variant, the pros indisputably outweigh the cons of modern gaming. From its convenience to its engaging nature, this is definitely one to expect in the next iteration of online intramurals.
Letter to the Editor Manifesting I am a Grade 12 student, and I have been manifesting for the implementation of limited face-to-face classes, or even just activities, for the next year. Although online learning is essential to avoid a learning gap, it is still not ideal. Frankly, this is not how
I imagined my years in senior high would go. All I can do is look forward to the possibility of having a face-to-face graduation and receiving our diplomas in person, on-stage. It certainly beats merely watching a livestream of the event. As such, I would like to call your attention to the students’ heed regarding
the return of face-to-face classes through thoroughly safe means. The government and related institutions must work together to make this happen. -John Michael A. Garcia
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