Universal Magazine Edition 49: Gaming

EDITION 49

FREE

GAMING

UNIVERSAL

From The Editor

Video games are becoming increasingly popular and have found their way into the hearts of many. I know over lockdown I spent a lot of time with a controller in my hand and maybe you did too.

While everyone plays video games at different intensities, some more casual, others a lot more competitively, and some not at all, we’ve all played something at least once. Maybe you have a sick high score on Tetris or you’ve built an amazing mansion in Minecraft. Some of you might’ve even played games as part of your school curriculum: Mathletics maybe? From mobile phones to Nintendo Switches, PCs to PS4s and even Samsung Smart Fridges… video games are more accessible than ever.

Being available on almost anything with a screen, gaming is for everyone!

We would like to acknowledge and pay respect to past,present and future Traditional Custodians and Elders of the land on which Universal Magazine has been created, the Bunurong peoples of the Kulin nation. We also acknowledge the continuation of cultural, spiritual and educational practices of Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander peoples.

Time to Catch Them All Illustrated By Sammar Bassal

Key Milestones in the History of Video & Arcade Games Words by Megan Odgers Design by Sammar Bassal

Single-player Games Words and Design

by Molly Fairley

Sovereignty was never ceded. This land was, is and always will be, traditional Aboriginal land.

We encourage our readers to do some research and understand more about the land on which they live, work and socialise.

Multi-player Games Words and Design

by Molly Fairley

UNIVERSAL

EDITION 49

FREE

What Type of Player Are You?

This edition has brought us together to talk about our favourite games and how they came to be, the different ways we like to play them and even the way games interact with and impact our wellbeing.

The Universal Team

Contents

Games Are For Everyone Video Game Word Search Words and Design

by Rochelle Leslie

Impacts of Gaming on Your Mental Health Words by Anne Liu Design by Rochelle Leslie and Naketra Mendes

GAMING

Screen games are used for even more than just entertainment - they’re a point of call for social interaction, they can help regulate mood and of course they’re great for unwinding after a day of hard work. With over 50,000 games listed on Steam alone, there’s always something more to play.

Acknowledgement of Country

Words and Design

by Harley Lorenzo Wood

Great Game Soundtracks Words and Design

by Rochelle Leslie

How Well Do You Know Gaming Lingo?

Words and Design

by Naketra Mendes

We thank you for giving Edition 49 a gander and hope this read helps you find your next favourite game.

Interested in joining the team?

Or looking to submit some work?

Please contact Kingston Youth Services on P: 1300 369 436 E: youth.services@kingston.vic.gov.au

Read previous editions:

Available for your reading pleasure at any time!

Send Youth Services an email for more info at youth.services@kingston.vic.gov.au

Cover Design by Naketra Mendes The views and opinions expressed in these articles are those of the authors and do not necessarily reflect or represent the views, values and official position of the City of Kingston or any of its officials, representatives or employees Kingston Youth Services and the Universal team acknowledge the support of the Victorian Government

Pokemon Illustration Illustrated by Harley Lorenzo Wood

Video Game Suggestions

Gaming and Social Media Study

The Universal Team

Victorian University

Universal: Join the Team!

Kinston Youth Services

Words by Megan Odgers | Design by Sammar Bassal

KEY MILESTONES IN THE HISTORY OF VIDEO & ARCADE GAMES 1930

The first Pinball machine is invented.

The machine is coin operated and lacks the iconic sound effects and screens that will become common in Pinball machines decades

1971

The first coin operated arcade games are introduced, Galaxy Game and Computer Space.

1958

The first ‘video game’ Tennis for Two is created.

Similar to 1972’s Pong, Tennis for Two comprises a ball moving across a screen.

Graphics are very basic and players must keep their own score.

References: https://www.aps.org/publications/apsnews/200810/physicshistory.cfm ∙ https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Early_history_of_video_games ∙ https://www.sutori.com/en/story/arcadegame-systems-timeline--dJQ6jbZYtbrJDLzv7mKTcHvN ∙ https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Arcade_game ∙ https://www.macrumors.com/2007/08/13/lights-off-first-native-iphonegame/ ∙ https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Video_game_crash_of_1983 ∙ https://www.bugsplat.com/blog/less-serious/great-video-game-crash-1983/ ∙ https://www.vocalzone.com/ the-record-blog/music-entertainment/short-history-arcade-gaming/ ∙ https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Amusement_arcade#History ∙ https://www.csmonitor.com/Technology/ Horizons/2010/0323/Nintendo-3DS-touted-as-first-3D-handheld-gaming-device

Mid 2000s

Gaming consoles continue to progress, with the new XBOX 360 and PS3, improving at home entertainment.

1994

1983

1972

The iconic game of Pong is created in 1972, making it one of the first successful arcade games worldwide.

The video game crash of 1983 occurs. Taking place mostly in the USA, it causes the industry’s value to plunge from billions to millions. The crash is caused by market saturation with too many games and consoles on the market. As a result, testing of games prior to release becomes a priority, so as to ensure games are of a higher standard.

1976-1981

The popularity of arcade games is on the rise, and more games are being created than ever.

Many popular games are introduced during this time, including Breakout, Space Invaders, Pac-Man, Donkey Kong and Frogger.

Tetris, initially created a decade earlier, is the first game to appear on a mobile device. Graphics are very simple, and do not appear in colour since phones at this time do not have colour screens.

Nintendo releases the Wii console, which is revolutionary as the first motioncontrolled game – boasting wireless hand-held remotes

90s early 00s The 90s and early 00s bring us the first at home gaming consoles. These include the Play Station 1 and 2, and the Game Cube.

1998

Dance Dance Revolution is released, becoming popular in arcades around the world. Its unique dance mat requires players to dance along with the game in order to play, using movement as part of play long before the Wii is invented.

These consoles allow at home gaming to become accessible and are the latest gadgets everyone wants for Christmas.

2020s

Gaming consoles continue to update into the 2020s with the PS5 and Nintendo Switch being popular.

Mobile devices continue to be a platform for games of all kinds, and PC gaming is booming.

2010s

Here come the Wii U, PS4, XBOX One and Nintendo 3DS!

2007 onwards

With the introduction of the iPhone and other smart phones, mobile games become popular.

The first iPhone game, Lights Off is released on the app store in 2007, followed by a slew of popular mobile games.

Our favourites include Angry Birds, Flappy Bird, Plants vs Zombies, Pokémon Go, Subway Surfers and Temple Run.

Gaming consoles continue to update, improving their speed and graphics. Nintendo revolutionises gaming consoles by creating the world’s first portable 3D console, with their Nintendo 3DS. It’s safe to say that these improvements have made it harder for arcade games to compete with newer consoles.

RUINED KING: A LEAGUE OF LEGENDS STORY (T)

Single-player Games Single-player Games

RUINED LEAGUE OF LEGENDS Nintendo KING: Switch,A PlayStation 4, Xbox Series STORY (T) X and Series S, Xbox One, Microsoft Windows,

PlayStation 5 Nintendo Switch, PlayStation 4, Xbox Series X and Series S, Xbox One, Microsoft Windows, PlayStation 5 of the League of Legends (LOL) An extension

Solo adventures!

Solo adventures!

Sometimes it’s important to stop and take a Sometimes it’s important to stop and take a moment away from the busy world. Single moment away from the busy world. Single player games are a great way to escape for a player games are a great way to escape for a little while, offering a peek into an adventure little while, offering a peek into an adventure of your choosing.

Here is is aa list of your choosing.

Here listofofgames gamesthat that offer great solo experiences of various offer great solo experiences of variouspaces, paces, whether your fantasy is is toto fight whether your fantasy fightagainst against diabolical demons, or simply help diabolical demons, or simply helporganize organizeaa life life that isn’t yours. that isn’t yours.

Developer: Airship Syndicate

Developer: Airship Syndicate

BURLY MEN AT SEA (E)

SPIRITFARER SPIRITFARER (T)(T)

THE GARDENS THE GARDENSBETWEEN BETWEEN(E) (E)

Nintendo Switch, PlayStation XboxOne, One, Nintendo Switch, PlayStation 4,4, Xbox Microsoft Windows, macOS, Google Stadia Microsoft Windows, macOS, Google Stadia

Nintendo Switch, 4, 4, Nintendo Switch,Xbox XboxOne, One,PlayStation PlayStation Android, Microsoft Windows, macOS, Linux Android, Microsoft Windows, macOS, Linux

A wholesome management game, A wholesome management game, Spiritfarer follows the journey of ferry-master Spiritfarer follows the journey of ferry-master Stella as she transports deceased spirits to Stella as she transports deceased spirits to the afterlife; the slow-paced game has the theplayer afterlife; the slow-pacedwith game hasspirits the as build relationships these player build relationships with these spirits as Stella cares for them, farming, mining, Stella cares cleaning, for them,and farming, mining, cooking, designing the homely cooking, cleaning, and designing theseas. homely ferry that carries them through the ferry that carries them through the seas.

Developer: Thunder Lotus Games

A whimsical whimsical puzzle plays with A puzzlegame gamethat that plays with space and time, The Gardens Between centers space and time, The Gardens Between centers on the relationship between friends, Anita on the relationship between friends, Anita and Frendt, as they explore their childhood and Frendt,The as player they explore their going childhood memories. warps time, memories.

The player warps time, forwards and backward, to completegoing tasks forwards and backward, to complete tasks and advance Anita and Frendt to their next and advance Anita and Frendt to their next memory. memory.

Developer: The Voxel Agents

Developer: Thunder Lotus Games UNPACKING (E)

Developer: The Voxel Agents

Words and Design by Molly Fairley

Words and Design by Molly Fairley

answers about his mother who resides in the land above. Supergiant Games Developer:

Developer: Supergiant Games

HOLLOW KNIGHT (E) Nintendo Switch, PlayStation 4, Xbox One,

macOS, Linux, Microsoft Windows, Nintendo Switch, PlayStation 4, Xbox Macintosh One, macOS, Linux, Microsoft Windows, Macintosh operating systems operating systems

An action-adventure game with a deep

An action-adventure game with a2D deep story and a unique, conceptual art style, story and a unique, conceptual 2D art style, the player can explore and battle their the player can explore and battle their way through the ruins of Hallownest. An way through the ruins of Hallownest. An immersive experience within a bizarre, fallen immersive experience within a bizarre, fallen kingdom, Hollow Knight has been praised for kingdom, Hollow Knight has been praised for its atmospheric atmosphericsoundtrack soundtrack and is great its and is great forfor those looking for an other-worldly experience, those looking for an other-worldly experience, but still stillwant wantthe thechallenge challenge tough combat. but ofof tough combat.

Developer: Developer:Brain&Brain Brain&Brain

Developer: Team TeamCherry Cherry Developer:

PlayStation Xbox One,PlayStation PlayStation3,3,Xbox Xbox 360, 360, PlayStation 4, 4, Xbox One, Microsoft Windows Microsoft Windows

Xbox One, Microsoft Windows, macOS Assuming the life of the rebellious son of an Underworld God, Hades is an action dungeonAssuming the life of the rebellious son of an crawler suitable for gamers that like roguelike Underworld God, Hades is an action dungeongames; play as Zagreus as he battles through crawler suitable for gamers that like roguelike levels of the Underworld, besting his dad’s games; play as Zagreus hetries battles through intense security system asashe to find levels of the Underworld, besting his dad’s answers about his mother who resides in the intense security system as he tries to find land above.

HOLLOW KNIGHT (E)

A game for those not seeking a longA game for those not seeking a longterm commitment, Burly Men At Sea is a term commitment, Burly Men At Sea is a casual misadventure game following three casual misadventure game following three fishermen’s journey OF mythological-scale fishermen’s journey OF mythological-scale travels. You play as their Wayfinder, making travels. You play as their Wayfinder, making point-and-click decisions to lead them point-and-click decisions to lead them home.

A single journey home.

A single journeyisisfinishable finishablein in one one sitting, however, it can be replayed for new sitting, however, it can be replayed for new experiences you might experiences you mighthave havemissed missedthe the first first time. time.

Xbox One, Switch, Microsoft Windows, macOS Nintendo PlayStation 4, PlayStation 5,

Microsoft Windows, macOS, PlayStation 5 A chilled-out puzzle game perfect for destressing, Unpacking follows the life of a A chilled-out puzzle game perfect for deyoung woman from childhood to adulthood stressing, Unpacking follows the life of a as they move houses; the player can discover young woman from childhood to adulthood more about their life through unpacking their as they houses; the player can discover boxesmove and decorating rooms the way they like more about their life through unpacking their (with guidelines, of course).

Developer: Witch Beam

Macintosh operating systems

DRAGON AGE:INQUISITION INQUISITION(MA) (MA) DRAGON AGE:

HADES Nintendo (T) Switch, PlayStation 4, PlayStation 5,

boxes and decorating rooms the way they like (with guidelines, of course).

Developer: Witch Beam

BURLYSwitch, MEN AT SEA (E) 4, Android, Xbox Nintendo PlayStation One, iOS, macOS, Microsoft Windows, Nintendo Switch,Linux, PlayStation 4, Android, Xbox One, iOS,operating macOS, Linux, Microsoft Windows, Macintosh systems

HADES (T)

UNPACKING (E) Xbox One, PlayStation 4, Nintendo Switch, Microsoft Windows, PlayStation4,5 Nintendo Switch, XboxmacOS, One, PlayStation

universe, Ruined King is a solo, turn-based

An extension of the League Legends (LOL) role-playing game perfectoffor those who universe, Ruined the Kingworld is a solo, turn-based want to explore of LOL without role-playing game perfect for those who just the multiplayer aspect, or new players want to explore the world of LOL without after a chance to test their battle strategy the multiplayer aspect, or new players just by combining your team’s unique abilities after a chance to test their battle strategy to take down a foe of earth-shattering by combining your team’s unique abilities proportions. to take down a foe of earth-shattering proportions.

If you want feel likea ahero, hero,Dragon Dragon Age: Age: If you want toto feel like Inquisition does just that. In the third Inquisition does just that. In the third installment of the Dragon Age series, this installment of the Dragon Age series, this action role-playing game has players make action role-playing game has players make high-stake decisions, form relationships, and high-stake decisions, relationships, and gain levels, all whilstform fighting demons and a gain levels, all whilst fighting demons and a world-threatening force. world-threatening force.

Developer: BioWare

Developer: BioWare

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Multi-player Games Gather your party!

Multiplayer games are a great way to hang out with friends from the comfort of your own (or their) home! As the temperature drops this season, it’s getting harder to organize outings that don’t require you to endure weather dropping well below 15°C, so here are some games you can play together on the couch, or separately online.

WARHAMMER: VERMINTIDE 2 (MA)

TINY TINA’S WONDERLANDS (M)

Xbox One, PlayStation 4, Xbox Series X and Series S, Microsoft Windows

PlayStation 4, Xbox One, PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X and Series S, Microsoft Windows

Gather a team of four heroes as you fight against hordes of enemies, gather loot, and gain levels. This first-person action game requires cooperation and strategy as you try to beat the evil force of Skaven in the Warhammer Fantasy universe. The combatcentric game allows players to choose out of 5 heroes with various abilities.

An action-adventure role-playing game inspired by tabletop RPGs, Tiny Tina’s Wonderland takes place in a fantastical world of whimsy for those that like a bit of colorful chaos. Customize your own adventurer alone, or with up to 3 friends to take on quests, explore dungeons, and fight bosses.

Developer: Fatshark

Developer: Gearbox Software

STARDEW VALLEY (E)

IT TAKES TWO (E)

PiKUNiKU (E)

Nintendo Switch, Android, PlayStation 4, Xbox One, Microsoft Windows

PlayStation 4, Xbox One, PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X and Series S, Microsoft Windows

A cozy role-playing sim, Stardew Valley has both single-player and multiplayer features.

Originally released as a solo game, the multiplayer update makes the experience a little less lonely as you and 1 to 3 friends run a farm outside of the quaint Pelican Town, making a profit and getting to know the colorful characters in the village next door.

An imaginative co-op game created for two players, It Takes Two follows the soon-tobe-divorced couple, May and Cody, who are turned into dolls by their daughter and sent to a magical land. The action-adventure platform game is packed with innovative mechanics and perfect for pairs that want to test their skills together.

Nintendo Switch, Xbox One, Microsoft Windows, macOS, Linux, Google Stadia, Macintosh operating systems

Developer: ConcernedApe

Developer: The Voxel Agents

Developer: Sectordub

HAVEN (MA)

OVERCOOKED (E)

SEA OF THIEVES (T)

Nintendo Switch, PlayStation 4, Xbox One, Xbox Series X and Series S, Microsoft Windows, PlayStation 5

Nintendo Switch, PlayStation 4, Xbox One, PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X and Series S, Microsoft Windows, Google Stadia

Xbox One, Xbox Series X and Series S, Microsoft Windows

An other-worldly experience for two, Haven centers on the story of two lovers on the run and having escaped to an uninhabited planet.

An adventure role-playing game focused on telling a story of freedom, Haven includes some combat in which players need to combine forces and coordinate moves to fight the most effectively.

How many cooks in the kitchen is too many? Working as a team of up to 4 chefs, Overcooked is a casual action sim that can show how well you work together under the pressure of angry customers. With cute character design and crazy kitchen levels, which of your friends will be the superior multitasker?

Developer: The Game Bakers

Developer: Ghost Town Games

Words and Design by Molly Fairley

A puzzle game available to play on your own, or with a friend! The main story of Pikuniku is for solo players as they play as Piku, exploring a vibrant, cheery-looking world and uncovering secrets. The multiplayer feature of Pikuniku is a short 9 levels but feels complete with loads of teamwork and shenanigans.

If the pirate’s life is for you, Sea of Thieves can be taken on solo or with friends. In an adventure game that offers both PvP and online co-op, assume the role of a pirate as you explore and loot in an open-world setting.

An exciting crusade for when you need a break from the real world to go treasure hunting.

Developer: Rare

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GAMES ARE FOR EVERYONE

No matter who you are or what you do, there is definitely a game out there for you to enjoy. Whether you’re fifteen or fifty it’s never too early or late to enjoy games, even if it’s watching someone else play them.

Video games are available on all devices, from phones to desktop computers, and cover anything from high skill, fast reaction time gameplay to good old fashioned solitaire. Regardless of what device you use or type of game you play, all are valid forms of enjoyment.

To showcase these points, the word search on the right consists of games from all sorts gaming platforms, with all different styles of play. These range from realist, to solo medieval, co-op and two-dimensional games. Some can be played on many devices, others just one and some of them make really good party games with friends.

Before you start the word search, here are some questions for you: ■ How many games do you recognise?

■ How many have you played?

■ Are there any that you want to play?

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VIDEO GAME WORD SEARCH

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Words and Design by Rochelle Leslie

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Impacts of Gaming on Your Mental Health

Bibliography: APA PsycNet. (2022). Retrieved 27 May 2022, from https://psycnet.apa.org/ doiLanding?doi=10.1037%2Fa0034857 Jones, C., Scholes, L., Johnson, D., Katsikitis, M., & Carras, M. (2014).

Gaming well: links between videogames and flourishing mental health. Frontiers In Psychology, 5. doi: 10.3389/fpsyg.2014.00260 Since Lockdown, The Gaming Community Has Swelled To More Than 3 Billion People. (2020). Retrieved 28 May 2022, from https://www. gq.com.au/entertainment/tech/sincelockdown-the-gaming-communityhas-swelled-to-more-than-3-billionpeople/news-story/5fa99d913cbffaca96 1c4dbf1f6b39a7 Johnson, D, Jones, C, Scholes, L & Carras, M 2013 Videogames and Wellbeing, Young and Well Cooperative Research Centre, Melbourne.

Are There Mental Health Benefits of Video Games? . (2022). Retrieved 28 May 2022, from https://www.webmd. com/mental-health/mental-healthbenefits-of-video-games The health effects of too much gaming - Harvard Health. (2020). Retrieved 28 May 2022, from https://www.health. harvard.edu/blog/the-health-effectsof-too-much-gaming-2020122221645

Since the COVID-19 pandemic began, the gaming community has expanded to more than 3 billion people worldwide. In other words, approximately 40% of the earth’s population plays video games. The gaming industry is growing rapidly, as well as concerns regarding gaming addiction and its effect on a person’s health and habits. While gaming can be harmful to you under some circumstances such as addiction, it can also be a valuable tool for relaxation and social connection.

Video games are a brilliant source of entertainment and relaxation, while also providing avenues for social interaction and connection. They are becoming increasingly complex, diverse, realistic, and social in nature. Games increase mental stimulation by improving development and critical thinking skills, forcing you to think, strategize and analyse different situations. Contrary to popular belief, violence is not vital to game enjoyment and players engage with violent games for the same reasons they play other games: for pure enjoyment of the challenge and the freedom to act in a virtual world.

Multiplayer and real time games provide players with virtual communities where they can work together and complete common tasks. In a fast-paced environment, you can learn who to trust and foster relationships with new people. Gaming is hardly a solitary activity anymore, with 70% of players playing video games with others in the same room or over the internet.

Reaching goals and accomplishing tasks in games also provides you a sense of satisfaction, which improves your overall wellbeing and increases dopamine levels. A study of 444 students aged 12-15 has found that moderate game players (7-10 hours per week) reported better mental health than non-gamers (did not play at all) or excessive gamers (10+ hours per week). This shows that moderate gamers’ mental health exceeds non-gamers, seeing that they are playing a healthy amount.

Gaming helps with trauma recovery by acting as a distraction or temporary relief from pain or psychological trauma. It also distracts from mental illnesses such as anxiety, depression and ADHD. Video games provide the

opportunity to learn how to cope with failure and keep trying in the face of it, building emotional resilience and stability. It is a brilliant form of relaxation and a way to release stress for both adults and children alike.

On the other hand, the ecstatic feeling and anticipation of getting home and unwinding by playing some games can lead to unhealthy coping mechanisms and addictions.

Unhappy or depressed people often look to video games as an escape from reality. Players may be enticed to spend long hours playing a never-ending game, potentially leading to poor sleep habits (gaming has been associated with sleep deprivation, insomnia, and circadian rhythm disorders), unhealthy diets, poor academic performance, isolation from the rest of the world and even addiction.

97% of people in the United States are playing at least one hour of video games every day.

Studies on small groups of players who spend excessive amounts of time in-game have demonstrated that symptoms of addiction can arise. This includes withdrawal, preoccupation,

loss of control, and interpersonal or intrapersonal conflicts. Gaming can seem to be a social activity; however, studies show that six months of pathological gaming was linked to diminished social competence in the real world, increased loneliness, and lower self-esteem.

If played in moderation, with strict discipline, video gaming is proven to benefit mental health. To avoid detrimental consequences and addiction, gaming must be integrated into a healthy lifestyle of exercise, good nutrition, and plenty of sleep. Balance is key, so next time, remember to take breaks and ensure your work is finished before rewarding yourself with a good game.

Words by Anne Liu Design by Rochelle Leslie and Naketra Mendes

WHAT TYPE OF PLAYER ARE YOU?

WORDS AND DESIGN BY HARLEY LORENZO WOOD

Everyone’s taste in video games is different, just as everyone’s taste in music and movies differs as well.

Your favourite games might involve traversing an expansive open world and becoming a respected hero, while your best friend’s favourites might be completely different - preferring to match pieces of candy on their mobile phone.

We all have different games we like to play and different ways we like to play them too. The way people play and interact with games is actually a really big topic of interest for academics in the field of game studies. There are many forms of play style categorisation that have been developed by these professionals. One of these is the Bartle taxonomy of player types based on a 1996 paper by game researcher Richard Bartle.

There are four Bartle player types: Killers, Achievers, Socialisers and Explorers - all outlined on the following page.

What type of player do you think you are? You might even be a combination of two!

THE KILLER Thrives on competition and going head-to-head with other players, the Killer strives to be number one in game rankings.

Always wanting to improve their high score or complete a speedrun in the shortest possible time.

Ga Games that involve leaderboards or ranking systems are the most engaging for this player type.

THE ACHIEVER Loves unlocking in-game achievements and often aims to 100% complete all missions and side quests.

Th Thrives on concrete indicators of success and loves to show off achievements such as levelling up or unlocking new items.

Games that involve engaging quests and unlockable achievements are popular with Achievers.

THE SOCIALISER Plays games for their social aspect and enjoys interacting with other players or even NPCs (non-player characters).

Li Likes to meet up with friends in game and are likely a part of gaming communities found on services such as Twitch, Discord, or YouTube.

Games that provide multiplayer experiences including friend lists and chat options are perfect for this type.

THE EXPLORER Focuses on exploring the game world they are provided, scouring every nook and cranny to discover what is unknown.

As well as physically exploring a game world, they may also explore a game’s mechanics - trying different movesets or item builds that can make their playthrough more unique or challenging.

Games with hidden achievements, secret rooms and ‘easter eggs’ keep the Explorer on their toes.

Great Game Soundtracks . . . so what’s your flavour of music?

You don’t always have to play a game to appreciate it, sometimes the soundtrack is enough, and the games listed here show this perfectly. Their themes and playstyles change drastically from peaceful, third-person, everyday lifestyle games, to first-person interplanetary shooters about deciding the fate of the universe. Whether the game is old or new, or rated G or R18+, the one thing they share, is the presence of memorable songs that can be listened to on repeat.

I personally have never played many of these games, but have found myself listening to their tunes while, working and hanging out with friends. If you’re looking for some new music you are sure to find something in the suggestions below, So check out these soundtracks and see what different styles of music interest you!

Words and design by Rochelle Leslie

ANIMAL CROSSING (2001–2020) G

CUPHEAD (2017) PG

DOOM (2016-2020) R18+

Play on: Nintendo Consoles Music: Upbeat, Calm, Tranquil, Relaxing Songs to try: Main Theme, Brewster’s Roost

Play on: PC, PS, Xbox, Switch Music style: 1930’s, Jazzy, Upbeat, Fast-Paced Song to try: Floral Fury

Play on: PC, PS, Xbox Music style: Heavy Metal, Intense Song to try: BFG Division

About: This is a chill lifestyle game to sit back and unwind to, which the music reflects.

The tunes are low-key but full of character, great for bopping along to or just leaving on in the background. This game has a song for every single hour of the day and 2 variations of each, depending on the weather.

Neat.

About: A run and gun shooter with a heavy focus on boss fights, Cuphead’s music is designed to keep you pumped and energised for battle.

Inspired by the 1930’s style, it’s animation and music style reflect this with mickey mouselike characters and a mixture of samba, swing, blues and jazz.

It’s a game as fast paced as the music within.

About: Put simply, this game is a first-person hack and slash. Your goal is to destroy invading demons – against the backtracking of heavy guitar riffs – and to feel great doing it. If you want music that puts you in the mood to rip and tear, then the free-flowing tracks of Doom are for you.

FALLOUT NEW VEGAS RADIO (2010) MA15+

FAR CRY 3 – BLOOD DRAGON (2013) MA15+

GTA V NON-STOP POP RADIO (2013) R18+

Play on: PC, PS, Xbox Music style: 1940s-60s, Upbeat, Jazzy, Classic Western Songs to try: Big Iron, Roundhouse Rock

Play on: PC, PS, Xbox Music style: Electronic, Synthwave, 80’s Sci-fi.

Song to try: Blood Dragon Theme

Play on: PC, PS, Xbox Music style: 80’s–2010’s, Pop, Club and Radio Music.

Songs to try: Applause, Rhythm of the Night

About: Despite being an open world adventure set in a post-apocalyptic, cold-war America, the soundtrack from New Vegas’ radio station is quite optimistic. Easy to listen to, it really sets the mood for wandering around derelict cities like it’s the good old west.

If you’re looking for something different, this is it.

About: Imagine an 80’s style dystopian action movie on steroids. Think a cyborg supersoldier with lasers, a rogue agent trying to bring back the dinosaur age, zombie-like minions, rogue AI and missiles.

If it sounds insane or cheesy it’s probably in this game and being backed up by an epic synth beat to match. Like Kung Fury? you’ll love this!

About: Going on a road trip?

I’d recommend these tunes.

Despite GTA V being a game about crime in modern day ‘Los Santos’, a lot of people found the most nostalgic part of this game was the Non-stop radio station, featuring a mixture of top hits from 1983–2013, and hosted by the fictional but hilarious, Kara. These songs are definitely for singing with friends or vibing alone late into the night.

HALO 2 (2004) MA15+

HOLLOW KNIGHT (2017) PG

HOTLINE MIAMI (2012) MA15+

TONY HAWK PRO SKATER 2 (2003) M

UNDERTALE (2015) PG

THE WITCHER 3 (2015) R18+

Play on: PC, Xbox Music style: Cinematic, orchestral, moving Song to try: Halo Main Theme

Play on: PC, PS, Xbox, Switch Music style: Cinematic, moving, emotional Songs to try: Dirtmouth, City of Tears

Play on: PC, PS, Xbox, Switch Music style: Electronic, Synthwave, 80’s Song to try: Dust

Play on: PC, PS, Consoles Music style: 90’s-2000 hip hop and rock.

Songs to try: Cyclone, No Cigar

About: A violent, top-down shooter game inspired by 1980s culture. Like Blood Dragon this soundtrack is full of heavy synth and disco beats, kicked up to the maxim. Great for a gym workout or club mix.

About: Sit back, close your eyes and let the tracks take you to the early 2000’s skater scene. If you want to feel like a half pipe pro these songs will take you there. This soundtrack is pure late 90s to 2003 hip hop and punk rock bangers.

Play on: PC, PS, Xbox, Switch Music style: 8-bit, fast, jazzy, groovy Songs to try: Megalovania, Death by Glamour

Play on: PC, PS, Xbox, Switch Music style: Slavic, orchestral, choir, strings, intense Songs to try: Steel for Humans, The Trail

About: A 2D roleplaying game with the option to fight or befriend your foes. While the visual design is simple the songs are fire. Not only are they catchy but also distinctive, and to top it off, the entire game (music included) was created by a single person; Toby Fox.

About: While slaying monsters and saving civilians, let the music hype you up, help you focus and make you feel like a badass in a medieval fantasy world. With amazingly performed strings and vocals, some of these songs could make even folding laundry seem like an epic quest.

LEGEND OF ZELDA – BREATH OF THE WILD (2017) PG

About: As a story-driven first-person shooter, set in a futuristic solar system, Halo’s songs range from grand and emotional to fast paced and action packed. Anyone who’s played the game will recognise them instantly, and even many who haven’t played will still know the tunes, particularly the theme song.

About: For a 2D platformer with fast boss fights and a cast of insect antagonists, every song is incredibly unique and well written. Despite never finishing the game, I listen to the tracks quite often. This is also the only soundtrack I have ever seen someone CRY over, simply because of the emotions and memories it brought back.

If that isn’t an amazing score, then what is?

JOURNEY (2012) PG

MARIO KART (1992-2017) PG

MINECRAFT (2009) PG

Play on: PC, PS Music style: Cinematic, ambient, calming, relaxing Songs to try: Nascence, Threshold, Apotheosis

Play on: Nintendo Consoles Music style: Upbeat, groovy, energetic Song to try: Rainbow Road

Play on: PC, PS, Xbox, Switch, Mobile Music style: Uplifting, relaxing, calm, nostalgic Songs to try: Subwoofer Lullaby, Sweden, Wet Hands

About: An indie adventure game that allows you to travel vast and beautiful dessert landscapes to find answers, the soundtrack will take you to a magical place. Drift off in the desert of a far-off world and forget about your own for a while. This entire game has no dialogue making sound a large part of the player experience and enjoyment. It does not disappoint.

About: Surely, you’ve heard the Mario Kart music before? This racing game is a staple in many homes, being a fun game to play alone or with friends. It’s got individual tunes for every map, and each one of them is a bop. They lift you up, pump you up and put you in the zone, increasing the energy till the end.

About: As an open world exploration, crafting and combat game, Minecraft can easily be played for hours on end. The same goes for its music. Soft, subtle, and relaxing, many of the tunes from Minecraft make great background study music, to help calm your mind and focus in on the task at hand. I’ve even heard of people playing this games music to help with sleep.

Play on: Nintendo Consoles.

Music style: Ambient, cinematic, upbeat, energising Songs to try: Rito Village About: The Legend of Zelda is known by pretty much anyone who’s owned a Nintendo console. Many of its songs are easily recognisable and memorable, even to those who’ve never played the games themselves. Breath of the Wild in particular, however, has received raving reviews on its music as a perfect mix of sounds for exploring, battling, and relaxing in the world of ‘Hyrule’.

How Well Do You Know Gaming Lingo?

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Words and Design by Naketra Mendes 2 3

Across

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1. Single Player is abbreviated to _______.

2. Means modification, is when any player makes changes to the game.

3. A newbie or someone who is new at the game.

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5. PvP stands for Player vs ______.

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6. When a player or character is acting sus, it means that they are ___________.

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8. Refers to gathering materials in the game toe make other items such as weapons, furniture or health potions.

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13. XP stands for _________ Points.

14. Stands for Health Points, measures the health of the character.

16. A hidden message or feature found in the game is known as _________ Eggs.

18. Refers to the delay between your input (ie pushing a button) and the action (ie character moving) happening in the game.

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Down 1. The cosmetic change to the character that has no effect on the game.

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2. The abbreviation for this word is MP. 4. Non-human opponents in multiplayer games.

7. Also known as a bug, is an unintended issue in a game's coding.

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9. When someone gets so upset at the game that they quit.

10. Short form of Good Game, Well Played, used at the end of a game to show sportsmanship.

11. Intentionally not assisting the team to win the game.

12. Stands for Non-Player Character.

15. Short form for Level.

Answers Across 1.SP 2.Mod 3.Noob 5.Player 6.Suspicious 8.Crafting 13.Experience 14. HP 16.Easter 18.Lag Down 1.Skin 2.Multiplayer 4.Bots 7.Glitch 9.Ragequit 10.GGWP 11.Throwing 12.NPC 15.Lvl 17.AFK

17. Means that the plater is unavailable and stands for "Away From Keyboard".

Video Game Suggestions From the team here at Universal ATOMAS Atomas is a mobile puzzle game that sees you placing and matching orbs around a ring - each corresponding to an elemental symbol from the periodic table. Mixed in between the elemental orbs, you are also given plus or minus orbs that are used to combine the same elements and create the next chemical on the periodic table. I find the game to be an excellent time waster when I’m commuting on the train and enjoy trying to beat my highest element combo whenever I have time to spare. The sound effects are quite calming and the graphics are very simple but still visually appealing. It’s also great in that it’s taught me to recognise which symbols and numbers represent which elements on the periodic table!

Atomas is available for free on both Android and iOS. - Harley

CANDY CRUSH SAGA Candy Crush is a relaxing game that doesn’t require a lot of thinking, which makes it the perfect game to play after a long day of uni or work! It is available on iOS devices and the aim is to match the coloured candies together to score points and remove the jelly.

-Megan

SKYRIM Skyrim is an open-world adventure role-playing game that I play on my Nintendo Switch. I enjoy the exploring aspect, having the freedom to move around and choose when to participate in side-quests or the main storyline. It also leaves room for the player to decide on their character’s build; whether they want to play a mage or follow a path fit for a barbarian or a rogue. One of my favorite aspects of RPGs is when the player’s choices have an effect on the world/the way they are perceived, and Skyrim certainly does this.

- Molly

STARDEW VALLEY Stardew is my current go to game on PC, and is available on most devices.

Your character, an office worker, moves to Stardew Valley after inheriting their grandfather’s old farm. From there the goal is to bring the farm back to life by harvesting crops, raising animals, fishing and even battling monsters in the local mines. What I love about the game is not only the amount of content and hidden quests there are, but also the ability to do everything in your own time, discovering things as you go and prioritizing what you want. The sense of accomplishment for each new achievement is highly addictive too.

- Rochelle

Learn about yourself and the psychology of video games/social media ____

VOLUNTEERS NEEDED STUDY ON GAMING AND SOCIAL MEDIA Do you play video games? We invite you to participate in a study about how gaming and social media are used, our relationship with these technologies and how these can be kept healthy.

We’re looking for those who play video games, are aged 12 and above, have the consent of their parents if not adults, use social media, and who are willing to do any of the following.

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Fill in a 25-minute questionnaire

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Wear a Fitbit for a week (optional)

GO IN THE RUNNING TO WIN A FITBIT INSPIRE! Win 1 of 50 Fitbits to show our appreciation for your time and commitment

Contribute to the understanding of an area you’re a part of ____

All data is anonymized ____

Contribute to the treatment of Gaming Disorder and Social Media Addiction ____

Gain insight into your own habits.

REGISTER YOUR INTEREST HERE