Video games are a common hobby and many people who are devoted to gaming can pursue their interests and follow a career in professional gaming. They can pursue a career in the form of streams, competitions, or any other form of showing their gaming abilities to the world.
Competitive gaming is often referred to as a sport, but how does the public feel about whether or not gaming is a sport? On Wednesday, May 22, YHS Hall Pass took to the halls to interview students to hear their feedback on whether or not gaming is a sport.
Students were initially asked if they view competitive gaming as a form of sport. Every student who was asked responded that they don’t view it as a sport. “No, I’d define it more as a hobby,” stated Adin Schlosberg. Responses as to why they feel that gaming shouldn’t be considered a sport were all reflective of the same idea: gaming is not a physically demanding activity. Seth Miranda stated, “It takes no athletic activity. I feel like that’s what defines a sport.”
Although students don’t view gaming as a real sport, they do believe that gaming can support a sufficient career as long as they are truly devoted to gaming. “In this day and age gaming can support a sufficient career,” said Adin. Sam Spiegel added, “[Gaming can work as a career] for some people.” Students believe that gaming can create a successful career, but only for a few who are very devoted.
Though students believe that gaming can serve as a foundation for success, some believe that their paycheck should depend on skill level. “It depends on how good they are,” added Christian Lippoth. Jovanni Crocamo stated, “Yeah if they’re popular and they’re really good.” Devin Tudose argued that gamers should be paid, but not as much as athletes. Overall, students believe that professional gamers should be paid, but their income should be limited and depend on their skill level.
Students were also asked why they believe that professional gamers should be paid. Adin explained, “Gaming is a form of entertainment and entertainment is a big money maker.” Seth also explained that a gamer’s income is determined by the entertainment they offer. “It doesn’t matter how good you are, it matters how many numbers you pull.”
Overall, the students interviewed all denied the notion that professional gaming is a sport, mainly because of the lack of physical activity involved in pro gaming. Although they believe that gaming can serve as a sufficient career, income should depend on skill level. However, gamers should still be paid due to their contributions to the entertainment industry. Despite the paychecks that gamers receive and the entertainment they deliver, their career is not viewed as a real sport.
