When you think of video games, do you get a negative perception, or a positive perception? Even in 2026, I’m sure most Sri Lankans hold a negative perception on video games. Especially the older generations. To them, video games are no different from their child taking psychedelics.
But at present, especially after the covid outbreak and quarantine, a huge consumer base for games grew within sri lanka among youth. Whether its FPS like PUBG or COD, or RPGs like Genshin Impact or HSR or even open world games like Minecraft and GTA, games have become mainstream among Sri Lankan youth.
Gaming culture used to be a niche enjoyed by only a few people, maybe at a friend’s PC setup or a relative’s playstation. With the rise of technology, gaming became more accessible and soon people moved on to fast paced mobile gaming or even building their own PCs at home.
Gaming can be a great way to improve your cognitive skills. Most games if not all, test your memory, reflexes, strategic thinking and more. They can always be a great way to connect with people and build your teamwork or communication skills.
At present, gaming has gone from a simple hobby to an actual source of income. Whether you want to stream your gameplay or be a competitive esports player or even develop your own games, the career opportunities are endless. Even in Sri Lanka, for the past decade, esports has been a rising topic with a huge contestant base.
Of course like all good things, gaming has its cons. Whether it’s the eye strain you get 2 hours into staring at the screen or the slouch you inevitably develop from leaning too hard, some people might use gaming as an escapism and develop an addiction or even get involved with toxic communities.
Hence, video games should be enjoyed in moderation like all hobbies lest you fall down a rabbit hole you can’t escape. Personally speaking, video games have been a main factor which led me to find and connect with most of my amazing friends. Whenever I need a reprieve from all the dull university work, I would hop on discord and play a game with my friends, which gives me a chance to relax, hang out with friends and simply enjoy my time.
Video games can be a double edged sword, depending on how, when and with whom you do it, it can either be a blessing or a curse. With balance and self control, gaming can provide entertainment, career opportunities as well as learning opportunities.
Written & Design By: –
Rtr. Kawindra Wickramasinghe
(Junior Blog Team Member 2025-26)
