[JSR] Great Games for the Lockdown Limbo

Fortnite, the popular free game that millions are playing, is fun and competitive, which makes a victory even more exciting. [Source: Jonathan Chun]

As COVID-19 continues to trap us inside our homes during quarantine, most look for ways to entertain inside the house while they pass the time. Technology has grown to become a big part of everyday lives, and many people have turned their attention to video games they can play online, through a gaming console or on handheld devices. Here are some fun and surprisingly educational games that you can play by yourself, or with your friends and family, online.

Jonathan Chun, 10th Grade West Ranch High School

Fortnite - This multiplayer game was first released in 2017 and has grown to become one of the world’s most popular games. In this 1st person shooter, multiplayer, battle royale game, the player tries to survive on an island with 99 other combatants, by gathering materials and weapons to defend themselves. More features were added such as “Create Mode”, where players can build structures and test various community designs on their own island. This allows for players to express their own creativity and collaborate with others while constructing their buildings instead of fighting in a battle royale combat. That's why this game appeals to one's artistic tendencies and battle strategists alike. Players who are skilled enough may also participate in the many tournaments that are held, competing against top combatants within each geographic region. Best of all, Fortnite is free(!) and available on most handheld devices, computers, and gaming consoles.

Minecraft - A classic of the modern gaming era, this brainchild of Sweden’s Mojang company has an average of 90 million players monthly and was crowned the best-selling video game of all time. Minecraft presents the player with no specific goal other than survival, which gives the freedom to perform whatever tasks choosen, from building giant structures to “mining” for precious materials. Minecraft encourages players to express their creativity through the many features the game has to offer. It is basically like an online version of LEGO blocks, which must be why the game has amassed legions of fans, young and old. Minecraft is an icon among video games, suitable for most ages, and available on all platforms.

Online Board Games - Sometimes old school is the best method, so why not engage in the most classic way generations have enjoyed themselves throughout the years. Many families, however, do not have access to physical copies of the games, so they can’t dust off an old Monopoly box for family game night. Others find themselves wanting to play but lacking competitive partners. That's where the rise of technology comes in handy, since these days online versions of your childhood favorites are accessible with a click of a button and available to both solo gamers and groups. Classic games such as Uno, Life, Chess, Scrabble, and many more are available in mobile app stores and on PCs.

These games, plus many more, can help fill the time during this period of self-quarantine. So if you feel yourself bored and wondering what to do, grab a friend and join the online gaming community.