In the realm of social pariahs and the feeling of non-belonging among blood relatives, I sought refuge in an unlikely haven – video games. This escape, though, was not without its own set of challenges, adding another layer to the frequent ridicule I endured during my youth. In a world where my quirks and differences were often the target of mockery, video games offered a sanctuary, a place where the rules of the real world no longer applied. Here, in the glow of the screen, my uniqueness was not a liability but a superpower, allowing me to navigate fantastical worlds with confidence and skill.

Reality, to put it bluntly, sucked. But for this nerdy, autistic kid, video games filled a unique need – not a need for acceptance, but a need for value. In the pixelated worlds of video games, I wasn’t just an observer; I was the hero. Each game offered a plethora of archetypes to experience, providing a sense of empowerment. The virtual landscapes became arenas where I could prove my worth, not through the physical prowess I lacked but through strategic thinking and persistence. These games were a balm to my bruised ego, offering victories and achievements that were scarce in my everyday life.

My journey into the world of video games began with the Atari 2600 and Pitfall, followed by the immersive universe of Nintendo. Super Mario Bros, Tecmo Pro Wrestling, Kid Icarus – these were the building blocks of my early gaming experiences, establishing Nintendo as a household name. Each game introduced me to new challenges and adventures, teaching me lessons in resilience, problem-solving, and the joy of exploration. Nintendo wasn’t just a brand; it was a portal to worlds where the impossible became possible, and a young boy could be anything he dreamed.

The real love affair, however, began serendipitously. Settling for a game I’d never heard of due to a lack of interesting options at the local video store, I stumbled upon Final Fantasy II. The game proved to be a revelation, capturing my attention within the first thirty minutes. It wasn’t just the gameplay that enchanted me, but the story – a rich tapestry of characters, motivations, and moral dilemmas. Here was a narrative that rivaled the depth and complexity of the books I devoured, set in a world as detailed and vibrant as any fantasy novel.

Final Fantasy became a quasi-religious experience for me. The epic tale of Cecil, the Dark Knight turned Paladin, navigating a world of magic, betrayal, and evil to save his realm, left an indelible mark. The game’s rich character development, a departure from the simplicity of other titles, drew me further into the enchanting world of RPGs. These games were not mere distractions; they were lessons in storytelling, character arcs, and the power of narrative.

This journey continued with Final Fantasy 3, a masterpiece that expanded the cast and delved even deeper into character narratives. It paved the way for other classics like Secret of Mana and the timeless Chrono Trigger. Each game was a chapter in my education as a storyteller, teaching me the importance of narrative depth, character growth, and the emotional impact of a well-crafted story.

Why does this matter, you might wonder? Today, I still look to Square for innovation and original storytelling in video games. Some of my fondest childhood memories involve the Super Nintendo. Now, as an adult, I aspire to craft original fantasy content in both video games and print. The stories of Cecil, Terra, Cloud, and more remain the foundation of my creativity. They are the touchstones of my artistic journey, inspiring me to create worlds that offer others the same escape and empowerment that I found in my youth.

In the pixelated landscapes of video games, I find my safe space – an escape from the weight of reality, fostering my imagination and creativity. They are not just games; they are the architects of my dreams and the custodians of my cherished memories. In these virtual realms, I am reminded of the value of storytelling, the importance of imagination, and the power of creating spaces where everyone can feel like a hero. Video games, in their myriad forms and stories, continue to be a source of inspiration, a reminder of the resilience of the human spirit, and the endless possibilities that lie in the art of the possible.