Warnings that the ‘computer generation’ are missing out on social skills is being soundly disproved by one group of Moray gaming fans.
Ranging in age from seven-years-old to 30, ‘Streetpass Moray’ is an active group of Nintendo 2DS and 3DS owners who use their interest in their games consoles to meet socially on a regular basis.
When the group was formed their initial plan was to take in members from throughout the Highlands – however, travel issues proved too great a hurdle to overcome so they set their sights to a more regionalised basis.
The group was created by Elgin gamer Kevin Mould, who was seeking a means of overcoming social anxiety. Kevin met up with other Nintendo fans and quickly learned that he was not alone in suffering from the condition – now as a result of the Streetpass Moray’s meetings he believes he is winning the fight.
[box] “We also have some Autistic members and people who have said they find it hard to be accepted in other group situations.” – Kevin Mould [/box] “We sometimes meet and hold events that are game-specific, such as Pokemon which is a big hit with a lot of our members,” Kevin said.
He added: “The group has been great for me personally but has helped so many other people as we have other members who also suffer from social anxiety. We also have some Autistic members and people who have said they find it hard to be accepted in other group situations.”
The group currently meet at least one each month with the aim to increase that to fortnightly as membership increases.
Kevin said: “Our group is for anyone who has a Nintendo 3DS or 2DS and wants to find other people who love to play the same games and have a great time.
“We are currently helping the GAME Shop in Elgin by holding some events there while most of our meetings are at the Elgin Youth Cafe.”
Anyone interested in become a ‘Streetpass Moray’ member can check out the group activities online via their Facebook page or they can be contacted on their Twitter account.