A 13-year-old named Willis Gibson recently achieved the remarkable feat of beating the original version of the 80s video game Tetris, gaining global attention. During a live report on Sky News, presenter Jayne Secker ended the segment by suggesting that “beating Tetris is not a life goal” and advising the teenager to “go outside” and “get some fresh air.” Secker’s comments received criticism online, with many considering them outdated and disappointing. The gaming community highlighted the dedication and effort gamers put into achieving such records and called for a more informed perspective from media presenters.
The UK games industry, represented by trade body Ukie, emphasized the need to dispel outdated perceptions of video games, recognizing their economic and cultural significance. The article also touches on the broader issue of increased screen time among adolescents, with concerns about potential health problems. The mother of the teenager, Karin Cox, expressed support for her son’s gaming hobby as long as he balances it with other activities and responsibilities. The report concludes by calling for a reconsideration of judgments and acknowledging the significance of Gibson’s achievement in the gaming community.”