Video games are often an ideal vessel for escapism and many players have enjoyed experiencing imaginative worlds. This has been particularly noticeable during the ongoing global pandemic of COVID-19 and theWorld Health Organization has even encouraged gamingto help people at this troubling time. It now seems that fans of video games on all platforms are taking a moment to appreciate video games as #ThanksToVideoGames is trending.

Many players have used games likeAnimal Crossing: New Horizonsfor social eventsin recent months and it seems that the online community has helped many people who may have been lonely while self-isolating. With the value of gaming becoming increasingly evident in the current climate, it seems that some players are taking time to reflect on the impact on the medium. Some comments are incredibly heartfelt while others have made humorous observations about the impact of video games on their lives.

RELATED:Red Dead Redemption 2 Player Found Arthur’s Best Friend in a Sheep

Thousands of gaming fans have spoken aboutgaming has helped with mental health, built friends and delivered unforgettable experiences using #ThanksToVideoGames to anchor their statements. On the other hand, there have been some comments from parents who are annoyed that their kids are so absorbed in the gaming worlds, although they seem to be in a humorous tone. This hashtag appears to have led a variety of positive comments and it seems that games have helped people connect online and sometimes in their household. It is clear, that there is a huge community of players who are appreciative of their collective experiences even if the games have impacted them in different ways.

The connections that can be formed from gaming are so significant thatHBO has created a television programme about gaming couples, and this Twitter trend appears to reveal a lot of people who have found common ground through the activity.  It will be interesting to see what other unique experiences are shared while this topic is trending, particularly as it seems that playing video games has impacted players in a variety of ways.

There is no doubt thatvideo games transcend the medium and enter popular culture, for all to enjoy. This Twitter trend is a testament to not only the immersion and joy that video games bring immediately but the greater impact that some titles have on collective culture. While video games can help players in different ways, it seems that this hashtag is allowing people to express their thanks in specific and largely meaningful ways.