I can’t claim to be much of a gamer anymore, but I enjoyed David Wong’s Cracked piece, “5 Reasons It’s Still Not Cool to Admit You’re a Gamer.” He touches upon the format’s misogyny, immaturity and repetition. I would agree and add the sheer cost–in dollars and time–of keeping up with the hobby. Many games leave you repeating the same gameplay experience for three levels beyond the point it’s novel. (Hello unbeaten copy of Elder Scrolls III: Morrowind!)

I think the anecdotal surge in casual gaming highlights how many fun, quick and free browser-based games are out there. Plants Vs. Zombies, Bejeweled and Mushroom Madness 2 are some recent ones I’ve clicked through and then happily abandoned. The AV Club’s Sawbuck Gamer feature is a great guide to more.