Shooting, Chasing, Exploring: A Shift to Gardening
Typically, popular video games are filled with action, excitement, and adrenaline. However, a new title that has captured the hearts of many is focused on something much calmer—gardening.
In “Grow a Garden,” players gradually cultivate their own virtual patch of land. Earlier this month, over 16 million individuals chose to engage in this relaxing activity over the weekend, breaking the previous record for concurrent players set by the highly energetic game, Fortnite.
What is it about this gardening simulation that has drawn in so many players? And might it inspire more people to take up gardening in real life?
How “Grow a Garden” Works
This game, featured on the Roblox platform, lives up to its name by allowing players to tend to their virtual gardens. Upon entering, users receive a small plot of land and can listen to soothing music while purchasing seeds.
These seeds grow even when the player is offline, and once harvested, items can be sold or even stolen from others. Eager players, like eight-year-old Eric Watson Teire from Edinburgh, enjoy the game’s competitive aspect and often engage with friends in challenges.
Since its launch in March, “Grow a Garden” has recorded approximately 9 billion visits, with 35% of its players aged 13 and under.
Appeal and Criticism
The game’s slow pace does not attract everyone. Some online commentators express confusion at its success, comparing it to the dullness of watching paint dry. Nonetheless, players like Eric appreciate the patience required in the game.
Owen, his brother, enjoys the competitive features and is intrigued by the virtual plants available. The gameplay can be expedited using Robux, a currency purchasable with real money, leading some players to spend significantly for rare items.
Roblox, a leading gaming platform, boasted nearly 98 million daily users earlier this year, further solidifying its status among young gamers.
‘A Seed of an Idea’
The question arises: Could this virtual gardening interest lead to real-life gardening? Andrew K. Przybylski from Oxford University surmises it’s unlikely, while Professor Sarah Mills highlights the importance and the potential challenges posed by in-game economies.
However, gardening enthusiast and podcaster Thordis Fridriksson remains optimistic. He believes any interest in gardening, even if introduced through a game, is a positive thing.
Owen and Eric enjoy both the game and their actual garden at home. While Owen expresses a fondness for both forms of gardening, his preference leans towards “Grow a Garden,” showcasing the game’s unique appeal.
