Investing Your Time in a Megagame

I always try to invite my friends to try out my hobbies; whether that be board games, disc golf or, yes, Megagames. I love sharing the things I enjoy with the people I enjoy. Everything is more fun when you’re surrounded by your friends. Why is it so difficult to get people to try a Megagame?

The President giving a speech during a game of Den of Wolves in Austin, TX.

The Biggest Pushback

Just like every other Megagamer I’ve talked to, I encounter one major hurdle when trying to get people to try out a game:

The time investment

Trying to fit in a 6+ hour time block into your free time is difficult; especially with all the other things we have going on. Taking a flyer on some new activity can feel like a huge risk. That could be six hours you never get back.

I think it’s pretty obvious I feel like the time is worth it. I’ve spent some time brain storming and I can only think of one ‘regular’ activity that compares the time investment of a Megagame and people are wildly more likely to ‘take a flyer’ on it than a Megagame.

Sporting Events

In any given sporting event, you’re looking at spending a decent chunk of money and time. You’re gathered with a large group of people and watching something happen, hoping for that memorable moment to occur. It can be largely rewarding but it’s also a major investment of time and money. Even if you’re not a fan of the team, you might be willing to go just to experience the event.

I love watching my favorite team and, inevitably, getting my heart broken when things fall apart on the field. The thing is, though, I don’t play any part of action. At any sporting event, fans don’t get to actively participate in the game they came to watch (arguments on crowd noise impacting the game not withstanding).

Be a Part of the Memory

There’s something special to be said about investing your time and energy into an event and actively creating memories with a large group of people. It might sound mildly hyperbolic but, in terms of memories made, it’s hard to match what a Megagame provides. The memories you bring back from a Megagame are a direct result of how you played, how involved you were. Your investment in time is paid back, not only in excitement, but in moments that feel meaningful and real.

It’s intimidating to put yourself out there and try something new, I get it. However; if you enjoy board games or role-playing games, if you were in the model UN or debate club in school, if you love working with (and against) others to create a unique story; I truly think you can and will find a lot to enjoy in a Megagame. The memories are there, waiting for you and your friends to make them.