For people younger than me, it may seem silly to imagine a world where media crossovers were novel and important. I recall sitting down to watch Scooby-Doo hoping it would be the one episode with Batman. These were the days before Fortnite, Ready Player One, or Multiversus where friends used to sit around and debate over which fictional characters would win in a fight. These conversations would get heated too, with us youngsters presenting our cases with the heat and fervor of ancient Greek Philosophers arguing in the agora.
One media property changed the way we thought about fictional characters forever – Super Smash Brothers. A fighting game that celebrates the medium of video games at large, Smash is a collection of video game characters who gather together under the fictional purpose of a grand tournament. These video game characters do not need a history of being featured in violent video games, with icons from franchises like Animal Crossing or Wii Fit joining in on the fun. This is one of the most interesting aspects of the franchise, you never know who is going to show up.
Whether it is a meeting of fictional characters in a video game, or a gathering of people in real life, it is a chance for different perspectives to come together. Oftentimes, the people we choose to spend time with are based on some commonalities, but it’s enough to just go to the same school. Gathering together relieves stress and builds community. It can make us more open to different ideas and perspectives. It is an opportunity to feel comfortable and feel heard. I am advocating for y’all to take the radical, powerful, and important action of having a dinner party.
A lot has been written about the epidemic of loneliness among younger generations and of males particularly. Anecdotally, I often hear people mention that they do not get invited to things, and to these things I say that it may be up to you to be the social change that you want to see in the world. You can be the one who invites people to things!
Game Club! They are one of the most impactful organizations on campus because they truly provide a community. Club President, John Williams says: “Game Club is a great way for students to unwind and connect with others after a busy day of classes. It offers a relaxed environment where people can come together, enjoy friendly competition, and share their passion for games. By hosting regular game nights and events, we create a fun, inclusive space where everyone can socialize, de-stress, and have a good time.” Also, almost every meeting has people playing Super Smash Brothers!
In Super Smash Brothers, there are contrived circumstances that gather disparate characters for a grand battle, but we don’t need a reason to get together, we just need each other. I can volunteer to cook this week, can you get it next time?
