Interview No.2
Person: an individual video-game creator who is an immigrant
This interview was conducted while playing Big Walk.
"How do you stay connected while you are at a distance?"
Most often, it is only text messages. I know that video calls are probably the better way, and I like to see people's faces when communicating, but video calls make me tired. I feel a bit exhausted after every call. It needs to be mentioned that finding the best time that works for both sides is not easy. Another thing that bothers me is the need to always talk when you are on a video call, compared to messaging, where you can think more about your words and there is much less pressure on you to answer immediately.
"Can you share a recent moment when you felt close despite the distance?"
There is not a particular moment I can recall right now, but it happens mostly when I encounter a shared feeling, memory, or anything mutual between myself and the person on the other side.
"What do you do together other than sending messages?"
Not much, really, only playing Rocket League with my friends. But the thing is, I don't play the game to stay connected. It's just a lucky coincidence that we both like the game. I do it for fun, and then I also have the opportunity to talk to them.
"What about a moment when it wasn't easy for you to stay connected?"
I think this has happened gradually over time, to the point where I feel the connection is fading away. I feel that the lack of things to talk about and shared experiences makes it difficult for me to stay connected.
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"Do you think another activity can help you maintain the relationship?"
Maybe any other activity that could be considered a leisure activity.
Actually, I feel like sometimes some relationships turn out to work better at a distance. For me, being away from someone is an invisible burden that forces me to do something about our connection. For example, sending a message is more mandatory when you are not going to see that person in the near future. Distant communication involves more struggle, and every little thing can turn into something huge. At the same time, talking and giving attention to every detail can deepen the bond between people.
Talking while playing the game acted as a way to analyze our communication. For example, casual conversations took place while doing things in the game, but the gameplay would come to a halt when we started talking about more in-depth topics.
