It's ironic, but gaming can be an escape from our hyper-connected, screen-filled life | Shaad D'Souza

Gaming requires my full focus and is one of the few activities that doesn't encourage me to check my phone every five minutes

I've heard that my generation spends about 10 hours online per day. If I'm being honest, that sounds a little conservative to me. When are you not online? Aside from face-to-face social interaction (say, coffee with a friend) or activities that force attention (the movies; gigs) I can't think of a time when I wouldn't at least be passively scrolling or using my phone in some capacity. I recently bought a pop socket - a small device that allows you to grip your phone better - so that it's easier for me to hold while moving.

I've grown up with computers, tablets and various other kinds of screen, and it seems unnatural that you would try to give them up in order to emulate some older generation's way of life. But being connected all the time can get a little frenzied, and I've recently found myself needing to take some time out. It's ironic that the one tool I've found most conducive for relaxing isn't offline at all.