Some of the best conversations I’ve had this year have been off the back of my Parent’s Guide series. Again and again I’ve come across parents, guardians and even aunties who wanted to find out about the favourite hobby of the people they care about – gaming.
But what surprised me the most was the enthusiasm for these simple game run-downs from the sites I write for. Over at GameProFamily we are publishing a good three or four of these a week, collecting them together where we can around a common theme. It’s exciting to work with GamePro who are really committed to providing a space where parents can really learn about and enjoy games. Then here on Geekdad I’ve received a warm welcome as I have brought family gaming articles. And together we have hatched a plan to bring you one of my Parent’s Guides each week – picking the most popular or interesting piece for your enjoyment.
Then there are other sites, too many to mention, such as Savvy Auntie and Parent’s Lounge who have asked to get on board with occasional Parent’s Guides. Everywhere the guides go they are tweaked and edited to fit their audience, but one thing seems to remain true. One way or another I always end up hooking up with a new bunch of family gamers.
As readers and publishers responded well to the guides, I thought I would step my game up as well. So, as an experiment for the next few weeks (starting on 18th August 2008) I’m going to be taking some time out from my hardcore games writing so I can deliver a new Parent’s Guide every day. One for each day of the week. As I say this is an experiment, but who knows perhaps this will turn into a new career for me. I’m more than happy to read and spark a few ideas for our communities and families.
I plan to pick a theme for each week, so by the end you will have a set of guides for games of a similar genre. But if you have a game that you’d like to see get the Parent’s Guide treatment, let me know. I’m happy to accommodate most suggestions.
Wish me luck then, the next few weeks are going to be interesting to say the least. But this is one gamble I am excited about taking. I’m not expecting to reach the heights of Jonathan Coulton, although if by doing this I can take a baby step towards my dream (games writing) job then it will be no bad thing (a week).
You will be able to follow the daily guides here. Or why not subscribe at Game People so you don’t miss any. Either way I look forward to taking this journey with you.
