Let's address the elephant in the room: video games can be intimidating. If you didn't grow up with them, the vocabulary alone is overwhelming. What's an FPS? Why is everyone talking about "frame rates"? What does "meta" mean? Why does everyone seem to already know how to play these games while you're still trying to figure out which button does what?
I'm here to tell you: you don't have to be a "gamer" to enjoy video games. You don't need to know the history, own the right console, or have lightning reflexes. You just need to be willing to try something new with an open mind.
This guide is for complete beginners. People who have maybe played a mobile game or two but wouldn't call themselves gamers. People whose partners or kids game and want to understand what the big deal is. People who are curious but intimidated. You're in the right place.
Why You Should Give Gaming a Chance
Before we dive in, let's talk about why gaming is worth your time at all. After all, you could spend your leisure hours doing other things—so why games?
First: video games are one of the most engaging forms of entertainment ever created. When they're working, they create what's called "flow"—a state of deep immersion where time disappears and you're fully present in the activity. That's the same state that people get from meditation, music, or great books, but games create it actively through challenge and response.
Second: games offer something unique among entertainment mediums: agency. In a movie or book, you watch what happens. In a game, you make things happen. You're not just experiencing a story—you're participating in it. For many people, this makes the experience more meaningful.
Third: games are social, even when you're playing alone. Online games connect you with people around the world. Local multiplayer games create memorable moments with friends in the same room. Games can be bonding experiences, not solitary escapes.
Fourth: games are for everyone now. The industry has changed. There are games designed for people who don't consider themselves gamers—games that are relaxing, creative, or narratively driven rather than reflex-focused. You don't need to be good at action games to find something you'll enjoy.
The Gaming Vocabulary Crash Course
Here are the essential terms you need to know to understand gaming discussions:
Console: The hardware box that connects to your TV (like PlayStation, Xbox, or Nintendo Switch)
PC Gaming: Playing games on a computer rather than a console. Can be more powerful but also more complicated to set up.
FPS: First-Person Shooter. Games where you look through the character's eyes and shoot things (Call of Duty, Halo)
TPS: Third-Person Shooter. Games where you see your character from behind (most action games)
RPG: Role-Playing Game. Games where you create a character and develop them over time with stats, abilities, and story choices (Final Fantasy, The Witcher)
Open World: Games that let you explore a large map freely rather than going from level to level linearly
Souls-like: Games in the style of Dark Souls—known for being challenging and requiring patience and skill
Meta: The most effective strategies or characters in competitive games at any given time
Permadeath: When your character dies permanently and you have to start over
Save Point/Checkpoint: Places in the game where your progress is automatically saved
What Console Should You Get?
This depends on your priorities. Here's a quick breakdown:
Nintendo Switch
The Switch is a hybrid console—you can play it on your TV or take it with you as a handheld device. It's known for fun, family-friendly games with broad appeal. If you want games that are accessible and joyful, this is your best bet.
Best for: Casual players, families, people who want to play with non-gamers
Key games: Mario Kart (great for beginners), Animal Crossing (relaxing life simulation), Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild (open-world adventure), Super Mario Odyssey (platforming fun)
PlayStation 5
Sony's flagship console has the best single-player games in the industry. If you're interested in narrative-driven experiences and don't care much about online multiplayer, PlayStation is excellent.
Best for: Story-focused gamers, people who want cinematic experiences
Key games: God of War, Spider-Man, The Last of Us, Horizon Zero Dawn
Xbox Series X
Microsoft's console has a strong focus on online gaming and its Game Pass subscription service, which gives access to hundreds of games for a monthly fee. If you want variety and don't want to spend money on individual games, this is appealing.
Best for: Online multiplayer fans, people who want lots of games for their money
Key features: Game Pass subscription, strong online community
PC Gaming
PCs offer the most customization and often the best graphics, but also require more technical knowledge to set up and maintain. This is the path for serious hobbyists, not casual beginners.
Best for: People who want the best graphics, those interested in PC-specific games, and those willing to troubleshoot technical issues
Your First Games: Where to Start
Here's the most important advice I can give: start with games that match your interests and skill level. Don't let anyone tell you that you need to start with "hard" games to be a "real" gamer. The best game for you is the one you actually enjoy playing.
If You Like Relaxing Activities
Animal Crossing: New Horizons (Switch)
You move to a deserted island and build a community with anthropomorphic animal neighbors. There's no winning or losing—just living at your own pace. You gather resources, decorate your home, plant flowers, catch bugs and fish, and chat with your neighbors. It's cozy, low-pressure, and perfect for winding down.
Stardew Valley (basically everywhere)
Take over your grandfather's farm and build a life in the countryside. Farm, mine, fish, forage, and build relationships with the townspeople. This is the definition of a cozy game—nothing bad can happen, and you can play at your own pace.
Journey (PlayStation, PC)
You play as a robed figure walking through a desert toward a mountain. That's it. But the experience is meditative and beautiful, with simple controls and no failure state. It's more art experience than traditional game.
If You Like Storytelling
Firewatch (basically everywhere)
You play as a fire lookout in Yellowstone in the 1980s. A mystery unfolds, and you explore the forest while listening to your supervisor over a walkie-talkie. The story is excellent, the setting is beautiful, and there's no combat—just walking and talking.
What Remains of Edith Finch (basically everywhere)
You explore the Finch family home and learn the stories of each family member who died. This is interactive storytelling at its finest—each chapter plays differently, and the whole experience is emotionally powerful.
Night in the Woods (basically everywhere)
You play as Mae, a college dropout who returns to her declining hometown and reconnects with friends. This is a story about mental health, friendship, and finding your place in the world. The writing is exceptional.
If You Want to Try Something Active
Just Dance (basically everywhere)
Follow the on-screen dancer and move your body. It's exercise disguised as fun, and it's impossible not to smile while playing. Great for parties or just getting some movement in.
Ring Fit Adventure (Switch)
An RPG where your physical exercises—squats, presses, running in place—power your character. It sounds gimmicky, but it actually works. This is a legitimate workout that you'll actually want to do.
If You Want to Understand What Your Kids/Partner Play
Fortnite (basically everywhere)
I know it has a reputation, but Fortnite is a accessible battle royale game with a low skill floor. You can play with friends, and the building mechanics, while complex, can be ignored in favor of just playing like a TPS. It's the most popular game in the world for a reason.
Minecraft (basically everywhere)
Build whatever you can imagine with blocks in this open-world sandbox. There's a survival mode where you gather resources and fight monsters, and a creative mode where you have infinite resources and just build. It's incredibly flexible and has something for everyone.
If You Want a "Real" Gaming Experience
The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild (Switch)
This is often called one of the greatest games of all time. You play as Link in a vast open world, solving puzzles, fighting enemies, and exploring at your own pace. It's challenging but fair, and there's no wrong way to play. You'll feel accomplished when you solve its puzzles.
Super Mario Odyssey (Switch)
Classic platforming with modern design. You explore various worlds as Mario, collecting "Power Moons" and using his hat as a possessed weapon/companion. It's pure, joyful game design—no stress, just fun.
Common Beginner Mistakes to Avoid
Don't Be Afraid to Look Things Up
Every game has a wiki or subreddit dedicated to it. If you're stuck, Google your question. There's no shame in using guides—gaming is supposed to be fun, not frustrating.
Don't Compare Yourself to Others
You're a beginner. You're supposed to be bad at first. That's normal and fine. The people who make it look easy have been playing for years or decades. Give yourself permission to be new.
Don't Force Yourself to Like Popular Games
Just because a game is critically acclaimed doesn't mean it's for you. If you try something and don't enjoy it, put it down and try something else. Your taste will develop over time.
Don't Worry About Cost
Games go on sale constantly. You don't need to buy games at full price. And with subscription services like Xbox Game Pass, you can access hundreds of games for a monthly fee. Gaming doesn't have to be expensive.
Don't Push Through Frustration
If a game is making you angry, take a break. Come back later. Or put it down entirely. Games are for enjoyment, not self-punishment.
Multiplayer Games: Playing With Others
Multiplayer gaming can be intimidating for beginners, but it's also incredibly rewarding when done right.
Start With Cooperative Games
Competitive games (where you're trying to beat other players) have a steep learning curve because you're going up against experienced players. Cooperative games (where you work together against the game) are more forgiving.
It Takes Two (basically everywhere)
A married couple is transformed into dolls and must work together to return to normal size. This is designed specifically for two players and is one of the best co-op experiences available. You'll need to play with someone else—perfect for a partner or friend.
Overcooked 2 (basically everywhere)
You and up to three others work together to prepare food in increasingly chaotic kitchens. Communication is essential, and the chaos is hilarious. This game will test your friendship, but in the best way.
Tips for Online Play
• Start with games that have robust matchmaking systems that pair you with players at your skill level
• Use a headset for voice chat if you want to communicate
• Don't take toxic players seriously—mute and move on
• Remember: it's just a game. Getting upset is normal; staying upset is optional.
The Mobile Gaming Option
If you don't want to invest in a console, mobile gaming is a legitimate entry point. Modern smartphones can run surprisingly sophisticated games.
Alto's Odyssey: A beautiful endless runner through desert landscapes
Genshin Impact: A full RPG with stunning graphics and deep gameplay—free to start
Slay the Spire: A brilliant card-based roguelike that's perfect for short sessions
Monument Valley: A beautiful puzzle game with impossible architecture
Final Thoughts: Gaming Is a Journey
Here's what nobody tells you about gaming: it's not about being good. It's about enjoying the experience. Some of the most fun I've had gaming was when I was terrible at the game and just enjoying the process of learning.
Your first games might not be your favorites—and that's okay. Gaming taste, like any taste, develops over time. Try different genres. Be open to being surprised. Don't let anyone make you feel bad for how you play or what you enjoy.
The best reason to game? It's fun. That's it. If you're not having fun, you're doing it wrong—or you're playing the wrong game. Find what brings you joy, and that's the right game for you.
Now go press start. Your next hobby is waiting.