When it comes to gaming, I’ve found that mobile games fit perfectly into my lifestyle right now. There’s something so wonderfully convenient about mobile gaming—you can pause, put it down, and pick it back up seamlessly, without the commitment that often comes with platforms like PC, Switch, Xbox, or PlayStation. My go-to games tend to be simple, requiring only basic motions, yet they bring so much joy and satisfaction. Titles like Solitaire, Cookies, Inc., and Fruit Puzzle deliver quick bursts of fun that fit perfectly into a busy day. They’re not just games—they’re little pockets of calm, like stepping outside to feel the sun on your face during a hectic afternoon.
Recently, I’ve been drawn to a few mobile games that require more time and attention—larger, more immersive experiences. Playing on my Galaxy S23 Ultra (with the latest software update, of course), I’ve ventured into games like Reverse 1999 and Life Makeover. These are more than just games; they’re escapes, offering worlds I can carry in my pocket and explore whenever I have a moment to breathe.
My gaming history spans almost every platform out there, and my all-time favorite has always been PlayStation. There’s just something about sitting down, controller in hand, and letting the rest of the world fall away. When I have the chance to carve out time to unwind, I’ve been gravitating toward games like Minecraft, Coral Island, and No Man’s Sky. Each of these feels like coming home—a mix of creativity, relaxation, and exploration. I’ve always had a soft spot for crafting and farming simulators, paired with the endless possibility of open-world games. If a game can combine all three, I’m completely smitten.
If you were to ask me what my favorite game of all time is, my answer would be instant: The Elder Scrolls V: Skyrim. When Bethesda released it in November 2011, it wasn’t just a game—it was an experience, a moment in time etched into my memory forever. I remember the first time I loaded it up, sitting on the floor of my bedroom with my fiancé beside me, just a month before we got married. The vivid details of that opening scene are still with me: the dragon soaring overhead, the rush of adrenaline as you escape through the chaos, and the sudden, breathtaking freedom when you step out into the open world.
That moment of choice—of realizing I could follow my companion or set off in my own direction—was like nothing I’d ever encountered before. It felt like breaking out of a mold I didn’t even realize I’d been in. The open world, with its endless possibilities, left me exhilarated. Skyrim wasn’t just a game; it was the spark that ignited my love for adventure and exploration. It showed me how far games could take us, how much freedom and immersion they could offer. From that point on, the sky wasn’t just the limit—it was the beginning.
Over the years, countless incredible games have come into my life, each leaving its own mark, but there’s something special about that first love. It’s a feeling that lingers, like a favorite song that brings back memories the moment you hear the first note. Skyrim will always hold that place in my heart—not just for its gameplay, but for the memories it gave me. It was there, sitting beside the man I love, as we dreamed together about our next steps in life, that I discovered what gaming could truly mean. And in case you’re wondering: yes, I married him, and every now and then, we still load up Skyrim and lose ourselves in that world again.
Gaming is so much more than a pastime—it’s a way to connect. To connect with ourselves, with others, and with memories that bring us joy. So, I leave you with a question: What’s your favorite platform or game? Is there one that’s left an impact on you, that lingers in your heart? Or perhaps a game that simply kept you company when you needed it most? Maybe it was the backdrop for a new friendship or a way to stay close to someone far away. Whatever it is, I hope you find the same joy and connection that gaming has given me.
—Brenda
Cluttered Corner 
Leave a comment