Game On: Why I’m 46 and Still Playing Video Games with My Wife Kids and Brothers

Game On: Why I’m 46 and Still Playing Video Games with My Wife, Kids, and Brothers.

You read that right—I’m 46, and video games are still a big part of my life. Whether it's with my wife, kids, or brothers, gaming is how I unwind from the chaos of my daily grind. And trust me, when you’re in political consulting, public relations, and running businesses, that chaos is never far behind.

For me, gaming is the perfect escape. It’s not just about pressing buttons or leveling up; it’s about hitting pause on the real world for a bit. My wife and I love playing together—Well... I love playing with her. Regardless, it's become a great bonding activity for us and I love that we game together. Over the years, the kids do their own thing, but we still have some family game time. Sometimes, we can only handle so much playing with the kids (you know how their attention spans are), but those moments are fun and memorable. It's also not fair how damn good they are now... At least they will never beat me at Mario Kart.

My brothers and I, though? We make sure to game together at least one night a week, and those sessions are gold. We’re back to being teenagers, trading banter, cursing like sailors, and laughing our heads off. And, yeah, we might squeeze in some chats about family, politics, and sports. It’s our weekly catch-up—and the nostalgia makes it even better.

Now, before you start thinking this is just an excuse for me to blow off responsibilities, let me say this: video games can actually serve a purpose beyond entertainment. Studies show that, for people with ADHD (like me), video games can be a helpful outlet. According to WebMD, video games provide quick feedback and rewards, which can stimulate focus and provide a sense of accomplishment. Another study by The ADHD Centre mentions that games, when used in moderation, can improve reaction times and help with decision-making skills. The key, though, is balance.

I’m not saying everyone should start spending hours in front of a screen. Like anything in life, balance is key. Too much gaming can lead to neglecting other important aspects of life, especially family, health, and responsibilities. But as a hobby? Gaming’s great for bonding, relaxation, and even keeping your brain sharp.

So, if you’re like me—a dad, a husband, and still hanging onto that controller—don’t feel guilty. It’s okay to have gaming as a hobby, and even better when it’s something you can enjoy with your family or reconnect with your siblings. Just remember to keep it balanced, stay connected to the real world, and maybe even level up your dad game while you’re at it.

Game on, dads.