Throughout the novel, the main characters suffer devastating losses. How do you think gaming helps them cope with their pain? Is it different for each or are there similarities?

Throughout the novel, the main characters suffer devastating losses. How do you think gaming helps them cope with their pain? Is it different for each or are there similarities?

The games serve as a distraction and a diversion -- a place to immerse themselves where the pain can be set aside, at least for the moment. They also provide a place where the pain can be observed somewhat as an outsider looking in, so the observer can be view the painful experience as more of an analytical problem solver.

I agree with Laurap, the games do provide a distraction and let them forget their problems and pain. I also believe that the games provide a world where outcomes are predictable and can be changed by starting over and choosing different actions, something we can't do in the reel world.

The games are a means of escape, in many different ways. As cathyoc says, it allows the player to make decisions and mistakes without permanent consequences.

I also agree with Laurap. Gaming is an escape for temporarily taking your mind off reality, much as reading a book or watching T.V.or other activities you enjoy.

How do I cope with my pain and stress? I read! For people who enjoy gaming how wonderful for them to get into the their world of games and forget their troubles. We all need a release from our every day lives!

The games allow them to escape into a different world where they won’t feel the pain they are experiencing

Gaming allows one to escape from reality. Their mind is challenged and they don't have to think about their personal problems.

I agree with everyone who feels that gaming is an escape, but it is one that keeps their minds busy and not just their hands (as in smoking or drinking.) I guess it's the mental equivalent of going for a run, playing golf, etc.

Escapism, fun, entertainment, plus they are addictive.

As a caveat,I knew nothing about gaming until I read the novel, but the previous posts seem to sum it up—they’re completely absorbing, and they’re habit forming as a person improves their proficiency. But, while the characters use the games to escape, they aren’t really coping, simply avoiding the realities of their existence. Gaming would seem to work well for the short term but ultimately doesn’t provide any coping skills to accept and move on.

The gaming was an escape for them to not think about their problems. Other people do other things, like read or bake or exercise!

In the novel, the games do serve to help the characters cope. It's alien to me since I find other ways to cope with adversity and tragedy.

I agree with previous comments. Gaming is a way to try on different personas as well as escape reality.

I agree with previous readers. Gaming provides escape from all of your other problems. It let's us cope with our immediate troubles.