World Health Organization encourages people to game during coronavirus outbreak
Play games together.
When you purchase through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission.Here’s how it works.
What you need to know
Many months ago, the World Health Organization (WHO) characterized excessive gaming as a disorder. While this is a known problem, no one thought that during the coronavirus pandemic, the WHO would recommend gaming as a pastime activity. According to a report byUSA Today, Activision-Blizzard and other game makers kicked off an initiative called #PlayApartTogether to entertain themselves while practicing social distancing.
The outlet said the following in its report.
The group hopes that the industry can ‘reach millions with important messages to help prevent the spread of COVID-19,’ said Ray Chambers, the U.S. ambassador to WHO in a statement. Game companies will encourage players to stay distanced and observe other safety measures including hand hygiene, he said. ‘We’re at a crucial moment in defining outcomes of this pandemic,’ he said in a subsequent tweet. ‘Games industry companies have a global audience – we encourage all to #PlayApartTogether. More physical distancing + other measures will help to flatten the curve + save lives.’
Hopefully, this will encourage more gamers to stay at home instead of going out and putting themselves and others at risk. If we all practice social distancing, we can stop the spread of coronavirus and then maybe, life will return to normal soon.
Xbox Game Pass and Xbox Live Gold in one
Xbox Game Pass gives you access to over a hundred games for one monthly fee. Xbox Game Pass Ultimate also adds Xbox Live Gold to the package so you can play online with your friends.
Get the Windows Central Newsletter
All the latest news, reviews, and guides for Windows and Xbox diehards.
Asher Madan handles gaming news for Windows Central. Before joining Windows Central in 2017, Asher worked for a number of different gaming outlets. He has a background in medical science and is passionate about all forms of entertainment, cooking, and antiquing.
