opinion essay video games

Essays About Video Games: Top 12 Examples and Prompts

Video games have revolutionized the way we have fun today. If you are writing essays about video games, check out our guide to inspire your writing.  

Few can contest the fact that video games have taken over the world. From the basic, almost “primitive” games of the 1970s like Pong to the mind-bending virtual reality games of the 2020s, they have been a source of entertainment for all. Moreover, they have proven quite profitable; countries like Japan and the United States have made tens of billions of dollars solely from the video game market.

Despite their popularity, much has been debated over the potentially harmful side effects that video games may have, particularly on children. One side argues that playing certain video games can lead to people exhibiting violence in the future, while others believe that video games teach players essential life skills. Regardless, they will continue to be a part of our lives for the foreseeable future. 

For engaging essays about video games, read the essay examples featured below for inspiration.

1. What electronic games can teach us by Kendall Powell

2. designers are imagining video games without guns by keith stuart, 3. playing video games all summer won’t make you feel worse by nicole wetsman, 4.  violent video games bad by andrea newman.

• 5. ​​The health effects of too much gaming by Peter Grinspoon

Writing Prompts For Essays About Video Games

1. video games: good or bad, 2. the benefits of video games, 3. what is your favorite video game, 4. do video games cause people to become violent, 5. video games in your life, 6. video games vs. traditional games, 7. is the video game rating system enough.

“In other studies, researchers found that gamers who trained on Tetris were better at mentally rotating two-dimensional shapes than those who played a control game. Students who played two hours of All You Can E.T., an educational game designed to enhance the executive function of switching between tasks, improved their focus-shifting skills compared with students who played a word search game.”

Powell explains a few possibilities of applying video games to education. As it turns out, certain video games can improve players’ skills, depending on the mechanics. Researchers are inspired by this and hope to take advantage of the competitive, motivational nature of gaming to encourage children to learn. New games are designed to help kids improve their focus, coordination, and resilience, and game designers hope they will succeed. 

“Imagine a game where you’re a war reporter seeking to capture the most iconic, representative images in a battle environment: You’d still get the sense of peril that audiences expect from action adventures, but your relationship with the environment would be more profound. It would be Call of Duty from the perspective of a creative participant rather than a violent interloper.”

The graphic nature of some video games is said to make kids violent, so it is only natural that some creators try to change this. Stuart writes that it is possible to maintain the fun that shooter-type games induce without using guns. He gives examples of games where you do not kill your enemy, simply stunning or capturing them instead. He also suggests photography as an alternative to killing in a “shooting” game. Finally, he suggests basing video games around helping others, making friends, and doing more peaceful, creative tasks.

“Any role video games play in skewing well-being that did pop up in the study was too small to have a real-world impact on how people feel, the authors said. People would have to play games for 10 more hours per day than their baseline to notice changes in their well-being, the study found.”

Wetsman counters the widespread belief that video games “destroy your brain.” Research done with a sample of 39,000 players over six weeks has shown that whether one plays video games for long or short periods, their mental health is not impacted much. There are some exceptions; however, there are not enough to conclude that video games are, in fact, harmful.

“Some people believe that the connection between violent games, and real violence is also fairly intuitive. In playing the games kids are likely to become desensitized to gory images;which could make them less disturbing, and perhaps easier to deal with in real life. While video games aren’t about violence their capacity to teach can be a good thing.”

In her essay, Newman writes about the supposed promotion of violence in some video games. However, she believes this violence does not cause people to be more aggressive later. Instead, she believes these games expose children to certain atrocities so they will not be traumatized if they see them in real life. In addition, these games supposedly promote connections and friendships. Finally, Newman believes that these “harmful” can make you a better person.

5. ​​ The health effects of too much gaming by Peter Grinspoon

“Gamers need to be educated on how to protect their thumbs, wrists, and elbows, their waistlines, their emotional state, their sleep, and their eyes. Simple education around taking breaks, stretching, eating healthy snacks, and resting and icing your thumb, wrist, or elbow when it starts hurting can address injuries early, before they become significant. For the eyes, gamers can try the 20-20-20 rule: every 20 minutes, try to look at something 20 feet away for 20 seconds.”

Grinspoon discusses both the benefits and the health risks of gaming. Video games allow people to interact with each other remotely and bond over specific missions or tasks, and some research shows that they have cognitive benefits. However, some gamers may develop vision problems and hand and wrist injuries. Gaming and “staring in front of a screen the whole day” is also associated with obesity. Overall, Grinspoon believes that gaming is best done in moderation.

Looking for more? Check out these essays about hobbies .

Many parents believe that their children’s “bad behavior” is because of video games. Based on your experience and others, decide: are video games good or bad for you? Make sure to read viewpoints from both sides and write an essay based on your position. Would you encourage others to play video games? Discuss these pros and cons for an interesting argumentative essay.

Like anything else, video games have both positive and negative aspects. Explain the good that video games can do for you: the skills they can equip you with, the lessons they can teach, and anything else. Also, include whether you believe their benefits outweigh the disadvantages they may pose. 

For your essay, write about your favorite video game and why you chose it. What is its meaning to you, and how has it affected your life? Describe the gameplay mechanics, characters, storyline, and general impact on the gaming community or society. You can write about any game you want, even if you have not played it; just ensure the content is sufficient.

Many claim that playing violent video games can make you violent in the future. Research this phenomenon and conclude whether it is true or not. Is the evidence sufficient? There are many resources on this topic; support your argument by citing credible sources, such as news articles, statistics, and scientific research.

Video games have been a part of almost all our lives. Recall a treasured experience with video games and explain why it is significant. How old were you? Why do you remember it fondly? How did this experience make you feel? Answer these questions in your own words for an exciting essay.

There are stark differences between video and traditional games, such as board games and card games. For an engaging essay, compare and contrast them and write about which is more entertaining, in your opinion. Be creative; this should be based on your own opinions and ideas.

The video game content rating system is used to classify video games based on their appropriateness for specific ages. However, parents complain that they are not strict enough and allow the display of violent content to children. Explore the criteria behind the rating system, decide whether it needs to be changed or not, and give examples to support your argument.

If you are interested in learning more, check out our essay writing tips !

Tip: If writing an essay sounds like a lot of work, simplify it. Write a simple 5 paragraph essay instead.

Martin is an avid writer specializing in editing and proofreading. He also enjoys literary analysis and writing about food and travel.

View all posts

ESL Writing Worksheet: Opinion Essay About Video Games (Intermediate)

In this writing worksheet, you are going to find exercises that will help students elevate their writing skills and practice the structure of an opinion essay on the topic “Are Video Games Good for Youngsters?”. 

Join our mailing list to receive a free ESL teaching resource every week.

Click to Join

There is an example of a short opinion essay on this topic, plus a multiple section where students can check their understanding of this type of writing, a section for practicing useful words and phrases for opinion essays plus practical tips for writing an opinion essay. The exercises are tailored to intermediate (B1) students.

Preparation Notes for the Teachers

Required time: 45 – 60 min

To prepare:

Prepare a discussion that covers the topic of the pros of video games. 

As a warm-up, tell students that you all know that playing too many video games for too long can be harmful for the mental and physical being of a person. However, this activity is also fun and some games are really engaging and intelligently made, so players see many good reasons about why they should play them. 

Ask students: How many hours per day do they play video games? What is their favorite video game and why? Are video games a good way to socialize? Are video games a good way to learn new English words? Are there any other benefits?

An Opinion Essay: Are Video Games Good for Youngsters?

In this worksheet, you will find exercises that will help you strengthen your writing skills and learn how to write an opinion essay on the topic “Are Video Games Good for Youngsters?”.

You will also learn some useful words and phrases for opinion essays, plus practical tips for writing an opinion essay. 

What is your favorite video game and why? Are video games a good way to socialize? Are video games a good way to learn new English words? Are there any other benefits?

Discuss briefly with your teacher and the class, then answer the questions in Exercise A, B, C, D, and E.

Read the questions before answering to make sure you understand them.

Are Video Games Good for Youngsters?

Today, many young people play video games on their electronic devices, at home, at their friends’ houses and many of them say that playing video games is their favorite activity.  These games are good for young people because of several reasons.

First of all, I think that video games are a good way to train your brain. There are many popular games in which players need to have high levels of thinking, follow instructions, solve complex problems and use logic. In my opinion , these games are fun, and you can learn many things from them. Moreover , you can play them with friends online, so you can hang out and socialize even if you have long-distance friendships.

In addition , you can learn a lot of new English words if you play video games. Some people think that you learn best in classes and while listening to music or watching films. Although this is true, there are many excellent students who learn English from video games because they spend most of their free time playing.

Finally, I believe that video games are good because they are fun and intelligent. I think that they are a good alternative to communicate with friends when you can’t see them in person and learn many new things together.

A. Understanding the Opinion Essay

1. Read the above essay, then choose and circle the 6 ideas that are mentioned in the essay.

a) Video games can increase your intelligence and ability to think.

b) Too many young people are obsessed with video games.

c) Playing video games online is good for socializing.

d) You can play video games even when you are not at home.

e) It is better to learn English in person than online.

f) Many students do well in English because they play video games.

g) There more reasons why playing video games is good for young people.

h) Many video games may help young people with problem-solving.

B. Expressing Opinion

2. Match the words and phrases that have a similar meaning. *Reminder: some of these words and phrases are underlined in the opinion essay in Exercise A.

a) I disagree that… ____________________________________

b) Finally…____________________________________

c) Nowadays…____________________________________

d) In addition…____________________________________

e) In fact…____________________________________

f) First of all…___________________________________

g) I believe that…____________________________________

Tips for Writing an Opinion Essay

• Write your essay in 3-4 paragraphs. Start each paragraph with phrases like First, Moreover, To conclude.
• Express your opinion using phrases like In my opinion, I believe, I think that. Always support your opinion with 1-2 arguments, i.e., why you think so.
• Mention opinions that are different from yours. Use phrases like “Some people think/believe“ and then explain why you don’t agree with them. Always explain why you disagree with 1-2 arguments.

C. Write an Opinion Essay

3. Write an opinion essay with the title ‘Are video games good for youngsters?’ Write the essay below and give your opinion.

Download this worksheet (including key) in Word and PDF doc format (zipped)

Additional Resources

• All ESL worksheets
• ESL activity ideas & materials
• Browse all ESL writing worksheets
• Activities for teaching grammar

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

How to Write an Essay about Video Games: Presenting Effective Arguments in Papers

Gaming on video consoles is becoming more and more common. In actuality, the typical gamer plays for roughly six hours each week. There are many who claim that video games are harmful to one’s health since they promote inactive lifestyles like prolonged sitting and isolation from the outside world. On the other hand, some people say that playing video games is a good way to unwind and relax, and they are not wrong. So, what is the real story of video games? Are they good or bad? The controversy of playing video games presents an opportunity for students to either be proponents or antagonists of the issue through essays. Accordingly, this article discusses how a learner can write an essay about video games.

It would be best to do thorough research before writing an essay about video games

Research is often the most challenging aspect of preparing an essay. While writing your video games essay, you’ll have to employ the information you get from research to define video games, describe different genres, and give relevant examples to support your claims. Students must recognize that the amount of research they conduct totally affects how good their essays turn out. Your video game essay will benefit greatly from your careful attention to detail and thorough investigation. Just keep in mind that you are trying to convince your audience to see things from your point of view. This is why having a great deal of background information is essential. Researching your favorite video game would give you an added advantage. Additionally, to support your claims, you must include relevant examples and research-based data.

You should develop an introduction that captures your reader’s interest

The whole point of the opening paragraph is to capture the interest of the audience. To achieve this, it should pose an intriguing topic or provide a contradiction or paradox. You ought to add a good hook to grab the reader’s attention so they can’t help but keep reading your paper. Given that there are numerous motivations for why individuals engage in video games, the introduction is where you have to specify the reasons. Moreover, it would be best to incorporate your thesis statement in the introduction. A thesis statement is basically the writer’s primary concept, summed up in one or a few sentences. A well-formulated thesis statement expresses the work’s central argument in a way that makes sense in light of the inquiry or issue at hand. It would be the correct response to the question, “What is the primary theme of this essay?” from the instructor. Nonetheless, you should perceive your thesis as an opinion that may be debated at any time, rather than an established fact or objective reality. In other words, now is the time to speak your mind regarding the impact of video games on today’s youth.

You must present your arguments in the body paragraphs

The arguments are what learners utilize to support their thesis. A single contention and one or two examples must each have their own paragraph. It would be best to provide your reasoning for your video game position and be sure to explain why you firmly disagree with the opposing viewpoint. Examples include your own experiences and, where appropriate, references to data from studies, forecasts, and statistics. Students should provide answers to contentious topics like “Do video games promote addiction and violence among players?” The arguments you employ ought to back your main point rather than contradict it.

You may offer vivid illustrations as you write an argumentative essay about video games

Learners should offer evocative examples of the genres and video games under consideration. Instead of stressing about whether the material you discover online or the game’s publishers are legit, dedicate yourself to writing a fun and vibrant paper for the person who reads it. This approach piques the audience’s attention and facilitates their comprehension of the argumentative essay about video games. Additionally, these vivid examples assist you in conveying your ideas in a manner that words can’t. Even if you aren’t convinced that your assignment requires an example, using one might perk up your reader and provide your arguments additional weight.

You should write a conclusion for your essay

The last section is meant to sum up the college essay. You may accomplish this by restating the thesis statement and briefly mentioning the arguments you presented in your body paragraphs. This approach will help the audience understand how you systematically addressed the issue and made conclusions. For instance, suppose you had to respond to the question, “Do games negatively affect us?” A topic like that can’t be satisfactorily answered by psychology, particularly when it involves something as novel as video games. Consequently, it is actually way easier to just pick a side and support your position with some research. In the end, your readers don’t expect the argument to be elaborated upon but rather summarized. No new material should be introduced in the last paragraph.

Identifying the sources you employed would be best

When you are writing an essay about video games, it is essential to cite your sources. That means you got to make a list of every resource you used in your paper. References to diverse books, scientific studies, statistical data, and remarks made by well-known experts are acceptable. It would help to make sure your research is from the past five years.

Proofreading is vital for developing a top-notch paper

Students must make sure that their essays about video games have been edited and proofread prior to submission. So basically, you are going to check your assignment for spelling, punctuation, and grammatical mistakes. Completing an essay that is free of errors increases a learner’s likelihood of academic success. Here are some tips to help you proofread your work:

• Read the text aloud. This will enable you to detect any mistakes.
• Take your time proofreading and revising your work. Spend sufficient time on it to ensure you catch any possible oversights.
• Concentrate on correcting a single mistake at a time. Avoid the hassle of searching for spelling and grammar mistakes at the same time. Prior to checking for punctuation and spelling problems, you may concentrate on grammatical issues.
• You may also create a list of the most typical errors that students make while writing essays, then review your work for each one.

Using these suggestions will guarantee that your essay is devoid of all types of mistakes that might undermine how persuasive your argument is. Alternatively, you can delegate your “ write my essay ” request to online essay writing services like CustomWritings which may allow you to complete a high-quality paper about video games.

Extra tips for presenting better arguments in essays about video games

Today’s youth often engage in video gaming, and this trend will only spread in the coming years. Composing a paper about video games can help you learn more about the subject while also providing readers with information they can utilize in their lives. Just consider the potential for them to be inspired by and gain new knowledge from your essay about video games. Following this article’s recommendations should take you a step closer to achieving your academic goals.

Nick Sinclair

Nick Sinclair, a gaming aficionado since the Commodore 64 era, studied Creative Computer Games Design in university before founding his own gaming company. Discovering a passion for content creation, Nick now helps gamers squeeze every drop of fun out of their favorite gaming hardware

Recent Posts

A detailed overview of all the player options in Destiny 2

D2 is one of the brightest and most interesting projects in the MMO RPG genre, combining shooter mechanics and the ability to fully upgrade one of the three heroes, studying the storyline and helping...

Elevate Your Fortnite Adventure: GPU Secrets for Ultimate Gaming

Are you ready to take your Fortnite experience up a notch? Imagine improving beyond what you thought was possible. Here's the truth: whether you are a pro with many wins or a newbie. Your GPU...

• Essay Samples
• College Essay
• Writing Tools
• Writing guide

Creative samples from the experts

↑ Return to Essay Samples

Persuasive Essay: Video Games

Teenagers today often spend a great deal of time playing video games. These games are fun and engaging and young people often feel like playing games is a great thing to do in their spare time. However, you shouldn’t spend too much time gaming and there are a number of reasons for this: it’s unhealthy, you should spend more time studying, and you need to socialize more.

The primary reason to cut down on gaming time has to be that youths that spend a long time on computers and games consoles are often not getting enough exercise. With high obesity rates, it’s very important for young people to spend as much time being active as possible, especially since studies show that people who are overweight during childhood and adolescence are far more likely to become overweight adults than those of a healthy weight when they’re young. There is just as much, if not more, fun to be had in getting out and about and being active. This doesn’t have to mean going for long runs if that’s not your thing; team sports are both fun and great exercise. Dance or fitness classes are also a good option for those not into sports.

Secondly, getting a good education is that best thing that you can do for your future. If every teenager cut down on their gaming time by 30 minutes per day and used this time to study, the whole of that generation would achieve better results and be more likely to have the career that they want. With education, you get out what you put in, so it’s really up to you to put in the additional effort. If you want to go to a good college, extra study in your own time will be completely vital, but gaming can reduce your concentration span and make this more difficult.

The third main reason that playing video games too often is that it’s no good for your social skills. Some teenagers may argue that because they can now play their games online with friends, they are socializing in their own way. However, you can’t beat face-to-face contact, and if you want to succeed in interviews and build good relationships in later life, you need to develop some proper communication skills. This shouldn’t be a chore, or difficult, because hanging out with friends is far more fun than sitting indoors playing on games all day anyway!

In conclusion, there can be no doubt that spending too much time gaming isn’t good for you. You don’t have to stop all together, but it’s all about moderation. Cut down and allocate your additional free time to doing things that are good for you, and you definitely won’t regret it in later life.

Follow Us on Social Media

Get more free essays

Send via email

Most useful resources for students:.

• Free Essays Download
• Writing Tools List
• Proofreading Services
• Universities Rating

Contributors Bio

Find more useful services for students

Free plagiarism check, professional editing, online tutoring, free grammar check.

Home — Essay Samples — Entertainment — Video Games — Video Games and Their Impact

Video Games and Their Impact

• Categories: Cognitive Development Video Games

About this sample

Words: 433 |

Published: Feb 12, 2024

Words: 433 | Page: 1 | 3 min read

References:

• Barr, Matthew. “Video Games Can Turn University Graduates into Better Employees.” The Guardian, Guardian News and Media, 2019.
• Etchells, Pete. “Five Damaging Myths about Video Games – Let’s Shoot ‘Em Up.” The Guardian, 2019.

Cite this Essay

Let us write you an essay from scratch

• 450+ experts on 30 subjects ready to help
• Custom essay delivered in as few as 3 hours

Get high-quality help

Dr. Karlyna PhD

Verified writer

• Expert in: Psychology Entertainment

+ 120 experts online

By clicking “Check Writers’ Offers”, you agree to our terms of service and privacy policy . We’ll occasionally send you promo and account related email

No need to pay just yet!

Related Essays

5 pages / 2086 words

1 pages / 505 words

6 pages / 2508 words

6 pages / 2896 words

Remember! This is just a sample.

You can get your custom paper by one of our expert writers.

121 writers online

Still can’t find what you need?

Browse our vast selection of original essay samples, each expertly formatted and styled

Related Essays on Video Games

The notion that video games cause violence has been a topic of debate and concern for many years. However, a wealth of research challenges this belief, suggesting that the relationship between video games and violent behavior is [...]

The debate between video games and outdoor games as forms of recreation has become increasingly prominent in today's technology-driven society. Both types of games offer unique experiences and benefits, but they also present [...]

Video games have become an integral part of modern society, with millions of people around the world playing games on various devices. From consoles to mobile phones, video games have become ubiquitous and enjoyed by individuals [...]

Video games have become an integral part of modern society, with millions of people across the globe engaging in gaming activities. Despite the widespread popularity of video games, they are often criticized for their negative [...]

Mobile gaming is quite popular and it started with the first ever mobile game Tetris, this game was launched on the Hagenuk MT – 2000 phone in 1994. Although this was the first ever game it wasn’t as popular as Snake, this was [...]

It is very striking to see how technology has entered our lives and how sadly it is changing our traditions. In this case the theme of the games is presented, about how they have been breaking even in the lives of the youngest [...]

Related Topics

By clicking “Send”, you agree to our Terms of service and Privacy statement . We will occasionally send you account related emails.

Where do you want us to send this sample?

By clicking “Continue”, you agree to our terms of service and privacy policy.

Be careful. This essay is not unique

This essay was donated by a student and is likely to have been used and submitted before

Download this Sample

Free samples may contain mistakes and not unique parts

Sorry, we could not paraphrase this essay. Our professional writers can rewrite it and get you a unique paper.

Please check your inbox.

We can write you a custom essay that will follow your exact instructions and meet the deadlines. Let's fix your grades together!

Get Your Personalized Essay in 3 Hours or Less!

We use cookies to personalyze your web-site experience. By continuing we’ll assume you board with our cookie policy .

• Instructions Followed To The Letter
• Deadlines Met At Every Stage
• Unique And Plagiarism Free

Essay on Video Games

Students are often asked to write an essay on Video Games in their schools and colleges. And if you’re also looking for the same, we have created 100-word, 250-word, and 500-word essays on the topic.

Let’s take a look…

100 Words Essay on Video Games

Introduction.

Video games are interactive digital entertainment platforms. They are played on devices like computers, consoles, or mobiles.

Types of Video Games

There are many types of video games. Some are educational, others are adventure-based or sports-themed.

Benefits of Video Games

Video games can improve hand-eye coordination, problem-solving skills, and strategic thinking. They can also be a fun way to relax.

Drawbacks of Video Games

Excessive gaming can lead to health issues like eye strain and lack of physical activity. It can also impact social skills if not balanced with real-world interactions.

Video games can be both beneficial and harmful. It’s important to play responsibly and maintain a healthy balance.

Also check:

• 10 Lines on Video Games

250 Words Essay on Video Games

Video games, a form of interactive entertainment, have evolved dramatically from their rudimentary origins in the 1970s. They have penetrated almost every aspect of modern society, becoming a significant part of our culture and a powerful force in the entertainment industry.

The Evolution of Video Games

In their inception, video games were straightforward, consisting of basic graphics and gameplay. However, as technology advanced, so did the complexity and visual appeal of these games. Today, video games are immersive experiences, boasting high-definition graphics, complex narratives, and intricate gameplay mechanics.

The Impact on Society

Video games have a profound impact on society. They have transformed how we spend our leisure time, and have even created new professions, such as professional e-sports players and game developers. In addition, video games have educational potential, as they can develop problem-solving and strategic thinking skills.

Controversies and Criticisms

Despite their popularity, video games have attracted controversy. Critics argue that they promote violence, addiction, and social isolation. However, research on these issues remains inconclusive, and many argue that the benefits of video games outweigh potential negatives.

In conclusion, video games are a multifaceted phenomenon that has significantly influenced our culture and society. Despite criticisms, their popularity continues to rise, indicating their enduring appeal and potential for future growth. As technology continues to evolve, so too will video games, promising exciting developments for this dynamic medium.

500 Words Essay on Video Games

Video games, a form of digital entertainment that has dramatically evolved over the past few decades, have become a significant part of contemporary culture. They offer a unique blend of interactive storytelling, art, and technology, engaging players in a way that no other medium can. Video games are more than just a pastime; they are a platform for expression, learning, and innovation.

The history of video games is a testament to the incredible technological advancements of the late 20th and early 21st centuries. From the rudimentary pixel graphics of the 1970s to today’s immersive virtual reality experiences, video games have continuously pushed the boundaries of what is technologically possible. They have transformed from simple, solitary experiences into complex, social phenomena, connecting people from all walks of life.

The Impact of Video Games

Video games have a significant impact on society, influencing various aspects of our lives. They have revolutionized the entertainment industry, becoming a multi-billion dollar sector that rivals and often surpasses traditional media like film and music. Beyond entertainment, video games have found applications in education, healthcare, and even military training, demonstrating their versatility and potential.

The Benefits and Concerns

Despite the criticisms often associated with video gaming, such as addiction and violence, numerous studies have highlighted the potential benefits. Video games can improve cognitive skills, such as problem-solving and spatial awareness, and can also foster social interaction and cooperation when played in groups. They can serve as therapeutic tools, helping to manage conditions like anxiety and depression. However, it is essential to maintain a balanced perspective, acknowledging the potential risks and promoting responsible gaming.

The Future of Video Games

The future of video games is as exciting as it is unpredictable. With emerging technologies like virtual and augmented reality, artificial intelligence, and cloud gaming, the possibilities for innovation are limitless. Video games are poised to become even more immersive, interactive, and personalized, offering experiences that were once the stuff of science fiction.

In conclusion, video games are a dynamic and influential part of modern society, reflecting our culture, advancing technology, and impacting various aspects of our lives. They are a testament to human creativity and innovation, offering unique experiences that entertain, educate, and inspire. As we move forward, it is crucial to continue exploring the potential of video games, addressing the challenges they present, and harnessing their power for positive change.

That’s it! I hope the essay helped you.

If you’re looking for more, here are essays on other interesting topics:

• Essay on Veterans Day
• Essay on Vaping
• Essay on Values

Apart from these, you can look at all the essays by clicking here .

Happy studying!

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

ESL Activities

ESL Games, Activities, Lesson Plans, Jobs & More

in Icebreakers + Warm-Ups · Speaking

Opinion Games and Activities for ESL

Do you want to help your students out with expressing an opinion in English? Then you’ll definitely want to check out these top opinion games and activities, along with worksheets, lesson plans and more.

Expressing Opinions ESL

ESL Opinion Games and Activities

Are you ready to get into the ESL expressing opinions activities? Then keep on reading for our top picks right here.

#1: ESL Surveys and Giving Opinions

I love to use surveys in my English classes. Just ask my students and they’ll tell you that I use them at least once a month! They’re ideal for the unit on expression opinions and can be used for just about any topic: clothes, food, travel, etc.

Do you want to try ESL surveys out with your students? Then you’ll certainly want to check out the following resource:

Surveys for ESL .

#2: Problem/Advice Board Game

Along with surveys, I’m ALL about board games. They’re a fun, challenging way for students to practice their English skills. In this case, they also lend themselves extremely well to giving opinions if you fill up your board with lots of common problems that people might have.

Do you want to know more? Find out everything you need to know right here: Problem and Advice ESL Board Game .

#3: Odd One Out

This is a kind of opinion activity that’s ideal for a quick warm-up or time-filler. The way it works is that you come up with 4 words, 1 of which doesn’t fit. For example:

• Apple, orange, carrot, watermelon.

Students have to choose the one that doesn’t fit and tell you why (carrot—vegetable, not a fruit). Where the opinion comes in is that there are actually lots of other answers possible. I will accept anything as long as students are able to justify it.

Do you want to try out this quick warmer with your students? Check out all the details here: ESL Odd One Out .

#4: Have a Classroom Debate and Express Some Opinions!

If you teach more advanced-level students, then consider running a formal debate. If you’ve never done something like this, not to worry. There are a ton of great videos on YouTube that can teach the students about how debates work and you can also make it as simple as you want it to be.

#5: WH Question Games and Activities

When you’re asking someone to give their opinion, it usually starts with a W or H question. Some common forms are:

• What do you think about _____?
• What’s your opinion about _____?

For some help coming up with activities for these kinds of questions, you’ll want to check out the following:

ESL WH Question Activities .

#6: Would you Rather Opinion Game

Would you rather is a fun, quick warm-up activity that’s ideal for getting students talking about giving an opinion about something serious, or silly. Come up with some would you rather questions, or get students to think of some. For example: Would you rather…

• eat something healthy or unhealthy?
• be Superman or Spiderman?
• die by fire or drowning?

What do you think about one of the best opinion games?

• Amazon Kindle Edition
• Bolen, Jackie (Author)
• English (Publication Language)
• 85 Pages - 02/02/2020 (Publication Date)

#7: Giving Opinions about Food

Isn’t food purely a matter of opinion? What one person likes can vary widely from what another person is into. And with the rise of cooking competitions on TV, even judges can have vastly different opinions about who the winner should be. That’s what makes food and opinions a natural fit.

Check out some of our top recommendations right here:

ESL Food Games and Activities .

#8: Typhoon

A nice way to review just about anything, including giving opinions is with this fun game. Have a look to find out more:

#9: Expressing Opinion Videos

Do you ever get the feeling that your students get tired of hearing you talk? I feel like that a lot! One way to mix things up for the students is to show them some videos related to whatever grammar or vocabulary point that you’re teaching.

In this case, there are a ton of excellent videos on YouTube that talk about how to express an opinion in English.

#10: Task-Based Teaching and Learning

I like to use some task-based learning projects at least once or twice a semester in my classes for the following reasons.

• They’re student-centred
• Students can have some freedom to choose what they want to learn
• Group work is essential
• It’s a change of pace from the usual classroom activities

In the case of stating an opinion, one thing that you might want to consider is having students choose a current event or something in the news. Then, they can prepare a 1-2 slide PPT presentation or poster. After that, they can make a short presentation about what the story is and then give their personal opinion on it.

If you want to know more about this kind of teaching and get some more practical ideas, you’ll want to check out the following:

ESL Task-Based Learning .

• 148 Pages - 03/09/2016 (Publication Date)

#11: Making Predictions about the Future

A topic that lends itself very well to stating an opinion is predicting things about the future . For example, what will the world look like in 50 years from now in terms of politics, transportation ESL /travel, food, etc?

To do this, students need to use a variety of future forms. Here are some of the top activities for this:

ESL Future Form Activities .

#12: Just a Minute Speaking Activity for Expressing Opinions ESL

If you teach high intermediate or advanced level students, then you might want to consider trying out Just a Minute. It’s a speaking activity that can be turned into a listening and conversation one as well if you require each group to ask follow-up questions.

The way it works is that students have to talk about a certain topic for an entire minute without stopping. In this case, you’ll want to choose controversial topics that lend themselves well to students giving an opinion. For example global warming, higher taxes on cigarettes, investing more money in renewable energy, etc.

Check out this video for all the details you need to know about Just a Minute:

#13: ESL Shopping Activities and Giving an Opinion

When you’re shopping for just about anything, chances are that you’ll be giving your opinion all the time. For example:

• That shirt is nicer than this one.
• I like the blue car.
• That TV is too expensive for my budget and it’s also too big.

That’s why I often like to use shopping as my topic when I’m teaching about giving or expressing opinions. This is what ESL textbooks often do as well.

Check out some of my top recommendations here:

ESL Shopping Activities and Games .

For the other side, a nice lesson plan idea is for Buy Nothing Day .

#14: Just One Question for Giving an Opinion

Just One Question is a 4-skills ESL activity that’s perfect as a round-up on the unit you’re teaching about giving opinions. It’s engaging, challenging and students seem to really enjoy it.

Do you want to know more? Then check this out: Just One Question 4-Skills ESL Activity .

#15: Fun Games for the TEFL Classroom

#16: English Conversation Activities and Expressing Opinions

Almost all English conversation lesson plans consist, at least partly of giving an opinion about a certain topic. It’s a nice way for students to personalize what they’re learning and bring some real life into the classroom.

Here are some of our top picks for conversation activities for adults:

Top 20 ESL Conversation Activity Ideas

#17: Travel and Holiday Activities for ESL

Along with shopping, travel is another one of those topics that are often combined with asking for an opinion or expressing an opinion. For example:

• Do you think we should go to this restaurant or that one?
• Would you rather take a beach vacation or a mountain one?

For some of the best ideas for this unit, you’ll want to check out the following:

ESL Travel Activities .

#18: Speaking Fluency Activity

To use this activity for a unit on expressing opinions, give students some controversial topics. Then, they have to choose one side of the issue, give their opinion and then support it with some facts or examples.

#19: Me Too!

This is a simple speaking and listening activity. Students have to give their opinion about something. For example:

• Golf is boring.
• I think that summer is too hot.
• We shouldn’t eat meat.

If other students in the class agree, they can stand up and say, “Me too!”

#20: Opinion Circle

Have students sit in a circle. Provide a topic or a question and ask each student to share their opinion about it. Encourage them to explain their reasoning and engage in respectful discussions. This activity promotes active listening and speaking skills while allowing students to express their opinions.

#21: Picture Prompt

Display a series of pictures representing different scenarios, objects, or situations. Students take turns selecting a picture and giving their opinion about it. They can describe their likes, dislikes, or preferences related to the picture. This activity encourages students to think critically and express their opinions based on visual cues.

#22: Opinion Cards

Create a set of opinion cards with statements written on them. Each statement should invite students to share their opinions. For example, “Chocolate is the best flavor,” or “Homework should be banned.” Distribute the cards to students and ask them to express their opinions on the statement provided. They can also justify their opinions with supporting reasons.

#23: Opinion Interviews

Pair up students and have them conduct opinion interviews. Each student takes turns asking their partner a series of questions about their preferences, opinions, or experiences. They can ask questions like, “What is your favorite movie?” or “Do you prefer summer or winter?” After the interview, students can present their partner’s opinions to the class.

#24: Opinion Gallery Walk

Display a set of statements or topics around the classroom. Give each student a sticky note or a small card. Instruct students to move around the classroom, read the statements or topics, and write their opinions or comments on the sticky notes. They can stick their notes next to the corresponding statement. Afterward, have students discuss the different opinions and reasons behind them.

Did you Like these Expressing Opinions ESL Activities?

• 138 Pages - 05/30/2015 (Publication Date)

Yes? Thought so. Then you’re going to love this book over on Amazon that’ll get your students talking: 39 No-Prep/Low-Prep ESL Speaking Activities for Teenagers and Adults . The key to better English class is a wide variety of interesting, student-centred and engaging activities. This book will help you do that in style!

Plus, the best part is that all the games and activities are no-prep or very low-prep. This means that you won’t have to waste a ton of time lesson planning but can instead have more time for the things you really like to do.

Does it sound like exactly what you need to take your ESL teaching to the next level? Check out the book for yourself over on Amazon, but only if you want a serious dose of ESL teaching awesome in your life:

Opinion ESL Lesson Plans

If you’re a busy teacher, it’s ideal to just print off a lesson plan and go. In this case, there are a ton of great resources out there for teaching opinions. Here are some of our top picks:

Lingua House

ESL Library

It’s also possible to plan your own lesson pretty easily:

Expressing Opinion Worksheets for ESL

There are plenty of great giving an opinion worksheets out there so that you don’t have to make your own. This can save a ton of time. Here are some of the best resources:

ISL Collective

ESL Printables

Giving an Opinion in English Activities

There are a number of common questions that people have about teaching English learners how to give their opinion about something. Here are the answers to the most popular ones.

What is an opinion?

An opinion is a personal view or belief about something.

How can you introduce the concept of giving opinions to English learners?

You can start by explaining that giving opinions means expressing what they think or feel about a particular topic or situation.

What are some common phrases to express opinions?

Some common phrases to express opinions are: “I think,” “In my opinion,” “I believe,” “I feel that,” “From my perspective,” and “It seems to me.”

Why is it important for English learners to learn how to give opinions?

Learning how to give opinions helps English learners express their thoughts and ideas, engage in discussions, and develop critical thinking skills.

How can you encourage English learners to share their opinions?

You can create a supportive and inclusive classroom environment, provide opportunities for discussion, and show interest and respect for their ideas and viewpoints.

How can you help English learners improve their language while expressing opinions?

Encourage them to use a variety of vocabulary, sentence structures, and language functions related to expressing opinions. Provide feedback and language models to enhance their expression.

Have your say about these ESL Opinion Activities and Games

What are your thoughts about these ESL giving opinion activities? Have you tried one of the options from this list or do you have another ESL activity that you’d like to recommend? Leave a comment below and let us know what you think. We’d love to hear from you.

Also be sure to give this article a share on Facebook, Pinterest, or Twitter. It’ll help other busy English teachers, like yourself, find this useful teaching resource.

Last update on 2022-07-17 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

About Jackie

Jackie Bolen has been teaching English for more than 15 years to students in South Korea and Canada. She's taught all ages, levels and kinds of TEFL classes. She holds an MA degree, along with the Celta and Delta English teaching certifications.

Jackie is the author of more than 60 books for English teachers and English learners, including Business English Vocabulary Builder and 39 No-Prep/Low-Prep ESL Speaking Activities for Teenagers and Adults . She loves to share her ESL games, activities, teaching tips, and more with other teachers throughout the world.

You can find her on social media at: YouTube Facebook Pinterest TikTok LinkedIn Instagram

Top Selling ESL Activity Book

As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases.

More ESL Activities and Games

English Conversation Activities for Adults | Fun ESL Conversation Ideas

Preposition of Place Games for ESL Students | TEFL Preposition Activities

English for Tourism: Learn Vocabulary for Working in Tourism Industry

ESL Parts of Speech Activities, Worksheets & Lesson Plans

About, contact, privacy policy.

Best-selling author and English teacher Jackie Bolen has been talking ESL activities and games since 2015. The goal is to bring you the best ideas, lesson plans, and activity recommendations for your TEFL classes.

Get in touch: About + Contact

Privacy Policy and Terms of Use

Email: [email protected]

Address: 2436 Kelly Ave, Port Coquitlam, Canada

More From Forbes

Amazon’s ‘fallout’ show moves up its release date and time.

• Share to Facebook
• Share to Twitter
• Share to Linkedin

Late last night during the Men’s NCAA Championship , Amazon ran an ad revealing that its Fallout series, set to launch on April 11, was actually moving up its release date and time.

Now? That’s going to be Wednesday, April 10 at 6 PM PT, 9 PM ET. And you may not realize it, but unlike most other Amazon shows, this is a binge drop. All episodes are available at once, Netflix-style. Most other Amazon shows are weekly or they may start with 2-3 episodes launched, and the rest being weekly. But that’s not happening here. I guess the idea is that gamers are used to blitzing through RPGs with ten hour play sessions in a day if they can manage it. But I doubt most people are going to stay up until 5 AM watching, and may have to save some for the rest of the week.

So…why do this? Amazon says it’s because “fans demanded it,” but some seem to think this might be a trick to get ahead of negative reviews, the way video games may release the day of and reviews don’t hit until the same time.

As someone with advanced screeners of the series (the whole series) I will say that the embargo time is in the morning, so reviews will still be out ahead of release, even if it’s a day or so earlier. To me, this would be a move that projects confidence rather than indicate something bad.

There’s also news that despite no official confirmation from Amazon, that Fallout season 2 is already gearing up to move its filming location to California . While Amazon does tend to commit to its larger scale shows with multiple seasons, again, it feels like confidence that this will be a hit for them.

Best Nintendo Switch Games: It’s Mario’s World, We’re Just Visiting

Amazon also released a new video with Walton Goggins announcing the news:

Goggins has been a big draw for the series, given that A) everyone loves Walton Goggins and B) his casting as a ghoul seems to have resonated with people just conceptually, even if we’ve only glimpsed his performance in actual trailers.

So, reviews drop early tomorrow and then the show arrives later that night now. Remember, 6 PM PT, 9 PM ET. I am looking forward to discussing it with everyone tomorrow, as there will certainly be a whole lot to talk about.

Follow me on Twitter , Threads , YouTube , and Instagram .

Pick up my sci-fi novels the Herokiller series and The Earthborn Trilogy .

• Editorial Standards
• Reprints & Permissions

Breaking News

Commentary: UCLA-LSU is America’s sweethearts vs. its basketball villains

• Show more sharing options
• Copy Link URL Copied!

Editor’s Note: The original version of this commentary did not meet Times editorial standards. It has been edited to remove language that was inappropriate and offensive. We apologize to the LSU basketball program and to our readers. On Monday, Ben Bolch offered an apology, which is appended to the bottom of this commentary.

ALBANY, N.Y. — This isn’t just a basketball game, it’s a reckoning. Picking sides goes well beyond school allegiance.

10:10 p.m. March 30, 2024 A previous version of this commentary did not meet Times editorial standards. It has been updated.

Do you prefer the team that wants to grow women’s basketball or the one seemingly hellbent on dividing it?

The coach who embraces reporters or the one who attacks them?

When UCLA plays defending national champion Louisiana State on Saturday at MVP Arena in the Sweet 16 of the Albany 2 Regional, the contrasts don’t stop with blue and purple.

Some might see this as inclusive versus divisive.

There’s little debate as to which side of the ledger Tigers coach Kim Mulkey falls on. Long after she reportedly failed to support Brittney Griner , in essence telling her gay star to keep her sexual orientation to herself, Mulkey has stumbled again in the wake of an imminent Washington Post profile on the veteran coach.

Last week, Mulkey threatened to sue the newspaper without knowing the contents of the story, labeling it a “hit piece.” Without naming the reporter, she described the Post’s Kent Babb as “sleazy.” She slammed the paper for giving her a deadline to respond to questions while also disclosing that she had refused requests going back two years to sit for an interview.

In doing so, Mulkey turned a non-story into a blockbuster. How many more readers will that Post story get as a result of her grandstanding?

Just as befuddling, Mulkey sidestepped the issue Friday, refusing to address the story she created. The first two questions Mulkey fielded at her media session involved the Post story. The coach dropped the ball each time.

UCLA Sports

Prattle of sexes: How trash-talking men helped UCLA women reach the Sweet 16

UCLA relies on talented male scout team players to help the Bruins prepare for opponents and fuel their NCAA tournament run.

March 28, 2024

Reporter: “What’s it been like kind of waiting for that story to come out?”

Mulkey: “I did make a statement, and that’s all I’ll comment on at this time because all I am focused on is to try and win another basketball game. Thank you for asking, though.”

Reporter: “Not to belabor the point, but from what you have been told or what you have been asked ... ”

Mulkey: “I’m only here today to talk about the next game.”

How convenient for someone who couldn’t stop talking about the story less than a week ago. She’s only mum when it suits her.

Mulkey’s best player also can’t get out of her own way. A year after she taunted Caitlin Clark by giving the Iowa superstar the ring finger and mocking Clark’s hand-waving gesture late in the national championship game, Angel Reese is at it again. When Middle Tennessee’s Anastasiia Boldyreva fouled out of a second-round loss to LSU, Reese waved goodbye as a crying Boldyreva headed to the bench.

The wave led to significant blowback on social media, sparking a virtual shrug from Reese.

“clickbait everything i do keep going viral,” Reese posted to the social media platform X, formerly Twitter, after the game.

“clickbait everything i do keep going viral” — Angel Reese (@Reese10Angel) March 24, 2024

Then there’s UCLA, which operates in the saintly shadows while being as wholesome as a miniature stuffed Bruin mascot. UCLA coach Cori Close gives reporters unfettered access to players and practices, repeatedly thanking them for trumpeting the emergence of the women’s game.

She’s unfailingly cheery, loudly announcing her presence early Friday morning after the team’s flight was delayed by 2½ hours and arrived close to midnight.

“Coach is here!” Close said joyfully in a corridor outside the interview area.

Her players reflect her sunny disposition while being as controversial as a pledge drive for underprivileged children.

“She’s a little bit cornier than us,” senior guard Charisma Osborne said, “but yeah, I think she really sets the standard.”

So, maybe they really are America’s sweethearts?

“Sure, I kind of like that,” star forward Lauren Betts said.

Said Osborne: “I like it too!”

Added Betts: “But don’t get it twisted — we’re not sweethearts on the court. It doesn’t mean we’re soft.”

Kiki Rice’s scoring flurry rallies UCLA past Creighton and into the Sweet 16

Kiki Rice finishes with 24 points and Lauren Betts scores 20 as UCLA rallies to defeat Creighton and set up a showdown with LSU in the NCAA tournament.

March 25, 2024

They also won’t give in to easy narratives. Betts and Osborne disputed the notion that Reese lacked class, and they should know — they played with her for Team USA last summer.

“She’s an amazing teammate and I really enjoyed playing with her,” Betts said. “I think she’s an amazing person and obviously when it comes to basketball you’re trying to win, so it’s like, whatever you have to do to win, I don’t think that people should judge her for that.”

Said Osborne: “She’s really nice off the court as well and people don’t always see that.”

Everyone can see for themselves Saturday. How will the nation’s most polarizing team conduct itself versus the one known for its class? The reckoning is here.

Ben Bolch’s apology:

It has taken me two days to write this apology because I wanted to be as thoughtful as possible in my response to the situation I have created. These are words I have not been asked to write by anyone at my paper, but they need to be expressed so that I can own up to my mistake.

Words matter. As a journalist, no one should know this more than me. Yet I have failed miserably in my choice of words. In my column previewing the LSU-UCLA women’s basketball game, I tried to be clever in my phrasing about one team’s attitude, using alliteration while not understanding the deeply offensive connotation or associations. I also used metaphors that were not appropriate. Our society has had to deal with so many layers of misogyny, racism and negativity that I can now see why the words I used were wrong. It was not my intent to be hurtful, but I now understand that I terribly missed the mark.

I sincerely apologize to the LSU and UCLA basketball teams and to our readers. UCLA, a school I have covered for nearly a decade, champions diversity and is known as a leader in inclusivity. However, I have not upheld that standard in what I wrote and I will do much better. I am deeply sorry.

— Ben Bolch

More to Read

Letters to sports: The Times must stop offensive commentary

April 6, 2024

Granderson: Caitlin Clark is having a moment in women’s basketball. She shouldn’t be the only one

April 1, 2024

UCLA vows to turn disappointment into an elusive Final Four run next season

March 31, 2024

Go beyond the scoreboard

Get the latest on L.A.'s teams in the daily Sports Report newsletter.

You may occasionally receive promotional content from the Los Angeles Times.

Ben Bolch has been a Los Angeles Times staff writer since 1999. He is serving his second stint as the UCLA beat writer, which seems fitting since he has covered almost every sports beat except hockey and horse racing. Bolch is also the author of the recently released book “100 Things UCLA Fans Should Know & Do Before They Die.” He previously covered UCLA basketball from 2010-11 before going on to cover the NBA and the Clippers for five years. He happily traded in gobs of hotel points and airline miles to return to cover UCLA basketball and football in the summer of 2016. Bolch was once selected by NBA TV’s “The Starters” as the “Worst of the Week” after questioning their celebrity journalism-style questions at an NBA All-Star game and considers it one of his finer moments.

More From the Los Angeles Times

Collin Schlee’s departure could put UCLA on the clock for another quarterback

Eric Bieniemy taking a loud and collaborative approach to reshaping UCLA’s offense

April 4, 2024

USC guard Kobe Johnson is transferring to rival UCLA

Louisville guard Skyy Clark announces he is transferring to UCLA

April 3, 2024

• Share full article

Advertisement

Supported by

Game Reviews: These Bonds Can Conquer Even Death

Open Roads, Brothers: A Tale of Two Sons Remake and Banishers: Ghosts of New Eden shred the heartstrings with quests for those in close relationships.

By Harold Goldberg

To discover the truth, a single mother and her spirited teen daughter take to the road. Two young brothers set off on a lethal journey to save their bedridden father. And passionate, longtime partners try to rid a New England town of a devastating supernatural scourge.

Open Roads, Brothers: A Tale of Two Sons Remake and Banishers: Ghosts of New Eden take on the emotional depths of family life in ways that shred the heartstrings — mostly without slipping into bathos. The narrative effect is the same as in other skillfully created media: You’re filled with emotion. Sometimes, you even tear up a little. But you feel good about it.

The American studio Open Roads Team relies on the point-and-click adventure genre to muse upon the sometimes tenuous bond between Opal (Keri Russell) and her daughter Tess (Kaitlyn Dever). It’s 2003, and you play as Tess, grimly packing up to move out with mom after Tess’s grandmother Helen passes away.

This five-hour interactive drama with humorous touches is cuts above a Lifetime movie. Long-held family secrets are uncovered by finding dusty letters, yellowed newspaper clippings and a child’s artwork. Teenage Tess does all of the sleuthing; Opal interprets dialogue, offers subjective, parental perspective and provides biographic history. The two are stunned to discover Helen’s passionate letters in addition to hints about bootlegging and a jewelry heist. What was going on in this family?

In any case, they can no longer afford Helen’s maternal dwelling, partially because of Opal’s misfortunes. She has dealt with her share of layabouts, deadbeats and heartbreakers. While Tess is adventurous, independent and full of youth’s vim, Opal is more guarded after a recent divorce from a dreamer who left to become a professional gambler (and who doesn’t provide alimony, either).

Clicking through the branching dialogue, you learn that Tess still loves her father, who appears via text messages on a silver clamshell cellphone. But she doesn’t know everything about him. In fact, what’s kept from each character — hidden embarrassments and prideful lies — is the greatest pull of the plot.

Road trip games featuring women are all too rare (Get in the Car, Loser! and Wheels of Aurelia are exceptions), making this excursion from Michigan to Canada a welcome one. As Opal and Tess drive to the family’s summer place, a long-deserted mobile home in a flowering meadow, they trade barbs and lay blame for their current economic state, which Tess feels may lead them to live in their car.

Upon entering the ramshackle dwelling with rusted tin siding, water damage and strewn provisions, a moldy smell you would expect in such a rundown place is not mentioned. But when you find another key and Tess unlocks a generally neat and clean van outside, she makes note of a musty odor. It’s one of a few inconsistencies that took me out of the experience. (A George W. Bush speech heard on the car radio may be meant to give a sense of the era, but it acutely made me think of politics and prolonged war.)

In Open Roads, the character graphics reminded me of the animator Don Bluth’s expressive art style, but the environments — bedrooms, highways, beaches — are far more realistic. Russell and Dever are likewise seasoned voice actors who convey the nuances of difficult times despite minimal movement in their characters’ faces.

Through the evocative voice acting, this small game captures the necessity of communicating what’s been left unsaid, however distressing it may be, for a relationship to move forward.

Brothers: A Tale of Two Sons Remake

When Brothers: A Tale of Two Sons was released in 2013, during that decade’s explosion of indie games, the influence of the Uncharted series was clear: Characters ascended steep cliffs, edged around precarious turrets and used ropes to swing to new heights. Yet it was the poignant story, about siblings who work closely together, that was so crushingly startling.

The remake, with enhanced sound and more detailed graphics by the Italian studio Avantgarden, tells the same effective tale.

Brothers begins seaside, the ocean sparkling with the sun’s reflections. Despite pleasant weather, it’s a dark start because under a weeping willow’s canopy is a gray gravestone. There, Naiee, a blond child in tears, mourns his mother’s death from drowning. Outside a modest wooden cottage nearby, his thin, coughing father is gravely ill.

Down a twisting dirt road, you maneuver an old wooden cart carrying the infirm patriarch to an attending doctor, who offers Naiee and his older sibling, Naia, a map to find a cure. It’s a dangerous journey filled with devious monsters and trauma. But there’s help, too. A friendly troll with a punky mohawk and red-capped mushrooms growing from its back moves the brothers up a mountain by cradling them in its supersize hands.

There’s not much fighting here, which adds to the game’s lasting relevance. Vicious battling and the establishing of power is often expected in games, so when deeper thinking is present, it needs to be appreciated. In Brothers, much depends on solving puzzles or luring enemies into areas where they can’t attack you.

Interestingly, the acting is voiced in what the director Josef Fares calls a form of Lebanese Arabic; players must allow scenes to unfold through action, gestures and eye movement. It works astonishingly well in the six-hour adventure, somewhat like 1921’s “The Kid,” the Charlie Chaplin silent comic drama about raising an orphan. But there’s no real happy ending in Brothers, as is often the case when lingering grief persists.

Banishers: Ghosts of New Eden

At its core, Banishers: Ghosts of New Eden is about a moral choice regarding life and death. Its sturdy, plaintive narrative, sometimes reminiscent of Nathaniel Hawthorne’s romanticism, makes the decision difficult: You can’t help but be moved by the outpouring of love displayed by Antea (Amaka Okafor) and Red (Russ Bain), ghost hunters in a haunted 1695 New England town.

Their bond is so passionate that I became distressed when, early in the game, Antea is murdered by the Nightmare, a skull-faced wraith with dead, tight skin. The scene is quite scary, although the church setting and the creepy villain make the moment feel a bit derivative of Lady Dimitrescu in Resident Evil Village or Lilith in Diablo IV.

That’s really where the similarity ends in this 25-hour experience from the French developer Don’t Nod. The loving bond between the scarified Antea and the tattooed Red is evident — in a tender touch or a cradled face — even as Antea is trapped in the ghost world. Red can choose to bring Antea back to life or to let her pass into infinity.

Thankfully, as in any healthy relationship, it’s not Red’s choice alone. The two discuss the morality of the decision, which would require a magic ritual to give Antea energy taken from spirits or the souls of murderous humans. Even though some of the killed have committed ghastly crimes, such as eating a friend’s flesh to survive, is it right for a Banisher to be their judge and jury?

There are four potential endings depending on choices you make, and I brought Antea back to life in hopes of a joyful, earthly reunion. But like in Brothers, these Banishers’ lives won’t be completely blissful. They’re armed with the magic and cunning necessary to succeed in their chosen profession, having dealt with intense evil for some time. It’s made clear that darkness will continue to follow them.

Open Roads was reviewed on the PC and is also available on all major consoles. Brothers: A Tale of Two Sons Remake and Banishers: Ghosts of New Eden were reviewed on the PlayStation 5 and are also available on the PC and Xbox Series X|S.

Inside the World of Video Games

Video Game Reviews of 2024: New York Times critics are examining new horror games  and point-and-click adventures, along with remakes of classic titles.

What to Play Next?: For inspiration, read what our critics thought about the newest titles , as well as which games our journalists have been enjoying .

Powerful Bonds:  Our critic reviews several games, including Open Roads , that take on the emotional depths of family life in ways that shred the heartstrings.

Pursuing Action Nirvana: Hideaki Itsuno helped shape the fighting genre in the 1990s with Street Fighter. Now he’s applying similar ideas to Dragon’s Dogma 2 .

Freedom and Chaos:   Rise of the Ronin , the first open-world game by the studio behind Ninja Gaiden and Nioh, explores Japan as it opens to Western influence.

Familiar Faces: Hollywood actors are making their digital presence felt  in video games, a once stigmatized medium now seen as a unique storytelling platform.