Hi, Merissa -
Equipment: none. Game: that depends. there are free samples, and totally free games.

No kidding! Gamers use PCs, entering movement through the keyboard. It's completely smooth and fast. (We're talking Windows here.) So you don't need to buy a console like an Xbox. If you really get into it you can purchase a controller that attaches to your PC. I use a controller when I fly in Microsoft Flight Simulator.

Games? You want games? Warframe is free. Yep, you just load it onto your desktop and create and account. They may try to sell you add-ons, but the games at no charge and it's a good one, with a good, complex story.

Go to steam.com and look at the variety of games that are available. You'll be amazed.
Thanks for posting and good luck! Let me know if you try one of these.

Yes! Good comment, Tambra. Raising the stakes; that's an important part of gaming -- because it's an important part of storytelling.

I haven't played any of the Final Fantasy games, but I know 1) They're not easy and 2) They have large, avid followings.

Now, get your hubby to making some notes toward a story . . .

Thanks for commenting and now, as always -- back to work! Type faster!

Thanks, Tambra.

My husband is a long-time gamer. Final Fantasy VII and Final Fantasy X have great stories and characters. Since we've been married I've been studying how the game makers weave the story threads, the rising stakes, and choices made to reveal the inner thoughts and true motivation of the main characters. The lessons they learn and the sacrifices leading to character growth in the arcs.

Hi, Denise -

Ask your boys to Sherpa you through the first chapter of Deadspace 3, or Black Mesa. They'll be impressed.

All kidding aside, read some of the back stories to these games. There's more than running and shooting and drooly creatures chasing you. Of course, there are all of those things, too . . .

Thanks for commenting!

LOL, Anna! Welcome to the gaming world. I remember -- years ago -- listening to Harlan Ellison talking about movies vs books, saying that the monster you see on the screen can never be as scary as the one you imagine, and I agree. Nevertheless, the stories offered by games like Deadspace 3 or Black Mesa are complex and interesting. And they can provide a break from reading/writing.

Anyway, welcome, and I'm glad you have a sherpa in the form of your young friend. Remember, you are learning new skills, so be patient!

Remember the gamer rule for when you're in a tight spot: don't thrash, think.
Thanks for a great comment and good luck.

No worries! It got there!

But now you have me convinced to at least give games a try. I'm also inspired by a young writer I know with a fine imagination, energy, and persistence who writes wonderful fiction and also is at home with games. So here I am, hauled feet first into this world---ropes, boulders, sherpas, and all. Wish me luck.

Hi, V. M. I'm glad you liked Fallout. I did too, but doesn't Fallout: New Vegas have a complex map and story? Wow! I've never played the Witcher games, but I understand they are not easy. Assassin's Creed is one that my Godson has talked about; I'll have to see what he thinks of it.

I think the back-and-forth between games & fiction & movies is fascinating.

Thanks for weighing in! And check out Half-Life or Black Mesa when you can.

PS I know what you mean about time! I'm driving in American Truck Simulator (an entire genre that I didn't have time to mention in the blog) and it can suck hours out of your day if given a chance.