Molly PavlovichIn 1958, “Tennis for Two”—one of the first video games—was displayed at a public exhibition, dazzling the future-forward and leading the way for further innovative developments in what would soon become a booming gaming industry.
Favorites like “Pong,” “Pac-man,” and “Super Mario 64” soon became household names in the decades that followed. Today, the number of video games can hardly be counted, with more than 100 unique devices existing between consoles, handheld systems, PCs, VR/AR systems, mobile devices, and streaming platforms.
While the average user is in their mid-30s, according to Statista, recent AARP research shows that video gamers 50 and older have grown by more than 12 million in the past six years (a 30% increase), now accounting for about a quarter of all video game players. It’s clear that older adults who experienced the trailblazing of gaming first-hand in the ’60s, ’70s, and ’80s are interested in picking up their controllers once again.
THE CONNECTIONS LAB
Recognizing this trending interest among older adults as well as benefits like improved memory, processing speed, and problem-solving, Messiah Lifeways is developing a designated gaming space for residents. “We are always looking for ways to think about the journey of aging outside of the box that it’s often put inside,” said Messiah Lifeways President & CEO Karl Brummer. “Our hope for this space is that it supports a culture of intergenerational connection, support, and learning as it relates to future technological endeavors. We want to empower older generations to continue to see technology as a helpful tool that can add value and enrichment to their lives.”
The Connections Lab will be equipped with a Switch, several PS4s, and a variety of beginner-friendly games to choose from—offering them opportunities to play with children and grandchildren when they visit and engage in their favorite gaming pursuits in their free time. Messiah Village resident Chris Smith, who enjoyed playing the video game “Myst” in the ’90s but hasn’t picked up a joypad in decades, is excited to give gaming a try again. “Maybe I’ll find my new favorite game,” he said.
BEST BEGINNER-FRIENDLY GAMES
ANIMAL CROSSING: NEW HORIZONS
Available on Nintendo Switch Animal Crossing™: New Horizons is a life simulation game where players move to a deserted island and build their own paradise by fishing, bug catching, fossil hunting, and crafting items. Players can customize their island, invite animal villagers, and design their homes and surroundings, with the freedom to terraform the island’s landscape. The events change throughout the day and seasons.
DONUT COUNTY
Available on Nintendo Switch, PlayStation 4, Xbox One, PC (Steam), and iOS Donut County is a quirky and fun physics-based puzzle game where players control a hole in the ground that grows larger as it swallows various objects. Set in a colorful, animated world, the game follows the story of a mischievous raccoon who uses an app to control the hole and cause chaos in a small town. With a lighthearted narrative, charming characters, and simple yet enjoyable gameplay, Donut County uniquely combines humor and strategy
STARDEW VALLEY
Available on Nintendo Switch, Xbox, PlayStation, PC (Steam), and iOS/Android Stardew Valley is a farming simulation game where players inherit a rundown farm and work to restore it to its former glory. Players plant crops, raise animals, mine for resources, and build relationships with town residents. Along with farming, players can explore caves, fish, and take on quests. Stardew Valley blends farming, community-building, and adventure, making it a perfect choice for fans of relaxing, immersive gameplay.
MINECRAFT
Available on Nintendo Switch, Xbox, PlayStation, PC (Steam), and iOS/Android Minecraft is a sandbox game where players explore a blocky world, gather resources, and build structures. With modes like Survival, where players manage health and face enemies, and Creative, which allows unlimited resources for building, the game encourages creativity and exploration—offering endless possibilities for players to shape their environment and collaborate with others.
MARIO KART
Available on Nintendo Switch Mario Kart is a classic and beloved racing game featuring iconic characters from the Mario universe, such as Mario, Luigi, Princess Peach, and Bowser, as they race through colorful tracks while using various power-ups and items, such as shells and bananas, to gain an advantage or hinder opponents. Mario Kart combines fast-paced racing with unpredictable elements, making it accessible for all ages.
