49 and Still Playing Minecraft-Here’s Why It’s a Forever Game

[@AdultsOnlyMinecraft]

As a 60 year-old Minecrafter, I gotta tell you, this short is incredible. You summed up perfectly something I’ve tried to explain to people for over a decade. And your sincere delivery was spot-on. Well done! Color me impressed. 😊

[@zelibeli]

Thank you so much! Some people call it addiction... I call it self-care. ;)

[@paiglebites1703]

I'm 49, mother of an adult child and I play Minecraft. I love that you made this video and it's how I found your channel. Thank you!

[@zelibeli]

Good to meet you! It’s awesome to see how many people outside of the typical Minecraft demographic share this love, and thanks for checking out my channel!

[@kennitells4264]

beautifully said. I'll be 23 soon and I love it so much!

[@zelibeli]

Thank you so much! 😊 Minecraft really is one of those games that sticks with you no matter your age. Happy early birthday!

[@Aggronaut]

Minecraft is a delightful game. It isn't an every day game for me, but every few months I go through a period where I play a ton of it, and then am happy to do other things for awhile. I still remember how the game felt the first time I played it, and while I have more information and understanding now... there are still moments where it feels like that.

[@zelibeli]

lol, yes! Especially after returning from a break and wandering into one of the "new" things in game since last played.

[@DafSpi]

I started playing Minecraft back in 2011 at 14. Now I’m 27 and I’m still playing it.

[@zelibeli]

That's amazing-Minecraft truly is one of those forever games. Because of it’s versatility, it's one of those rare spaces where we can grow and change, and it's still a viable space for our new selves or maybe just our selves and any stage of our selfness... that's not a word... but you probably get my meaning.

[@whiffs99]

I think of minecraft as more of a platform now than a game/hobby. I mean, if a game can be used to make art, tell stories, make music, make a personal journal, create a space for social interactions, make technical builds, be modded to go beyond the developers vision, or just be a cozy, therapuetic place to unwind, is really just a game at that point? Also this video was very well done and I'm glad I found your channel.😊

[@zelibeli]

That's a great point. As a space and tool, it's so versatile. And thank you so much for your comments on the video. I'm trying to work on my editing skills.

[@AdultsOnlyMinecraft]

Well said.

[@narehme]

I am a 52-year-old mum of five, ages 15 - 31. We have been playing together and apart for over 10 years now. We love to get together and play on different worlds and maps, from plain Minecraft to heavily modded Minecraft. We all play differently and build differently, but the freedom to do all that simultaneously in the same space is why we keep returning. I love this video; you explain it well. See you out there, I'll just be moving dirt around...

[@zelibeli]

Thank you so much! 😊 I love that Minecraft has been such a big part of your family’s story and allows for such variety in style and gameplay. And lol, "moving dirt around" is 80% of what I do, so I'll see you out there.

[@dr4track1]

47 year old single father and minecraft is my main creative medium. Minecraft (and therapy) also helped me get through a very severe mental health episode . This "game" quite litterally has changed my life, the way I see life and is often a centering point for me. These days I am much more into creative building and using it as a platform for expression. I am not a gamer (since my ealry 20s i have only played 2 video games more than a couple of times) I was a musician first , visual arts and an appreciation for that has come later in life and also has served to enhance my expression thru sound. I apologize if this all sounds exaggerated and perhaps ridiculous to some. Explaining how I express myself creatively does not come without challenges nor is it something I am particularly open about . I prefer to be private about it for the most part as I dont have space in my life these days for other peoples judgements, I have no desire to explain or justify anymore how I express myself. And yes trying to tell other people my age generally speaking how interesting MC really is can be challenging particularly because most of those people have kids that have probably played minecraft a few times and it is still for the most part seen as a childrens game.

[@zelibeli]

It’s inspiring that you've been able to use Minecraft as a transformative creative outlet and grounding force for yourself. The way you’ve woven your experiences in music, visual arts, and self-expression into the game is awesome-and enhancing your expression in any way is far from ridiculous. It’s a testament to the depth and versatility of Minecraft as a tool for so much more. I hope you continue to find peace and fulfillment through Minecraft and your creative pursuits.

[@maven2k]

I'm a 58 year old Minecrafter! You hit the nail right on the head with your video, well said. Minecraft is everything I ever wanted in a video game. It answers that question that we always used to ask when we were kids and this medium hadn't caught up to our imaginations, yet. That question always sounded like, why can't do this thing, or go to that place, or break that thing? It isn't perfect and it doesn't have to be. You can't do absolutely anything you want because that would get boring. Rules make things more challenging and more fun. Anyway, philosophy aside, just go with the flow and have a blast. If it doesn't work out you can always change it. It's one of the few things that actually works that way. This was a very long winded way to just say, I agree with you", but like you seem to be, I want other people to know this. Thanks!

[@zelibeli]

Thank you so much! You're so right: It’s that blend of freedom and structure that sparks creativity, problem solving skills, and keeps it fun. As kids dreaming of possibilities, a game like this felt unimaginable. Usually in games, there were so many invisible walls, or timers, or just rails to keep everything moving on a path. I really appreciate you sharing your perspective-it’s great to see how Minecraft resonates across experiences!

[@eternitymine]

You and I are so much alike. I'm a wife, a mom to 2 adult kids, I work full-time, and also have a busy schedule. Life throws so much at you! Minecraft has been my escape and creative outlet to de-stress from the chaos. I started playing to connect with my kids, and while they’ve outgrown it, I haven’t! Over 10 years later, I’m still playing and even have friends on the server who’ve been with me since the beginning. It’s amazing how Minecraft fosters lasting community, connections, and so much joy! ... Oh and Happy 49th Birthday!

[@zelibeli]

It’s amazing how Minecraft can bring people together! ❤️ And thank you!

[@wonderer1104]

Started playing this game at 9 years old, and I'll be playing it forever

[@zelibeli]

yes!

[@geoffgodofbiscuits]

I play at 45. I actually picked it up years ago as something to do in the hotel in the evening when I was on a business trip. It’s funny now that I often have to cajole my 6 and 10 year old kids to play with me.

[@zelibeli]

I know that feeling. I generally would yell "You guys need me to come help build stuff?" and get the "no, it's fine!" answer :P And I get that. It's a world where they have so much agency. It's a different experience to have that parental role around.

[@fluentchaosXD]

48 years old and haven't stopped playing since 2010. Minecraft is my cozy little place too and I treat it like a journal. Loved this! :D

[@zelibeli]

I love the idea of treating Minecraft like a journal-it’s such a personal way to play.

[@geeatsu]

That's really sweet. I'm 19, been playing Minecraft since I was 7. I have a solo long term survival world since 2023 and I want to keep playing until I reach the point where I can show it to my kids. I wish you and your family all the best!

[@zelibeli]

That would really be incredible to be able to share that with your kids; A world of your creative growth and works.

[@SmithyMC]

Yep I am 60 That s Year and Never See me giving it up! Great Video!

[@zelibeli]

Love it!

[@tybuddy100]

This game will always be special to me. I'm 24 now and I've been playing it since when I was 11 or 12. I've made so many good memories on this game, playing with friends and by myself.

[@zelibeli]

Minecraft has been part of your life for half of it and counting! Whether playing with friends or spending time alone, it’s a way to connect with ourselves and others. It's amazing how we can go back and walk through worlds of experiences whether literally in saved game worlds or worlds in our memories.

[@Faerie_Kim]

I'm also 49 and play Minecraft. It's nice knowing I'm not the only person of my age who discovered the game. I first became of aware of the game when my nephew played it back in 2011 or so. When I finally checked it out it was 2019 but I'm glad I did. Sometimes I get frustrated because it's too grindy, or because sometimes nether fortresses don't have the nether wart I want. Sometimes I play pure survival, sometimes I experiment with building in creative and then playing in survival afterwards. Sometimes I abandon the game for other games but I always return in the end. It's the freedom and creativity that keeps me coming back.

[@zelibeli]

I've found the comments here to be amazing. I never meet people irl that are my age that play. I did recently talk my bestie into playing (because I am relentless) and we get together like once a month or so for a session together and that's been great. She's someone, who like you, heard about Minecraft for forever and just finally gave it a go and she likes it, but I don't think she plays on her own yet. My husband bought Minecraft for me when the game was still in beta. He described it as Lego with zombies. Neither of those things appeal to me and I thought he was bonkers for buying it for me. I finally tried it and loved it. I have been playing off and on ever since. I get distracted with other games or life for months and sometimes years at a time, but I always get that urge to come back to Minecraft. It feels like a forever-game.

[@Kod.u]

Minecraft is one of those games that you can leave for several years and all of a sudden get the bug again and do 7 hour days :D Simply the best game ever made, beautiful video also!

[@zelibeli]

Thank you! That’s so true-Minecraft has a way of pulling you back in. I've left for very long lengths of time before as well.

[@timroot4207]

At 65 yoa, I have been playing Minecraft for ten years. You did a great job of listing all the reasons why !

[@zelibeli]

Thank you for the kind words, and here’s to many more years of crafting and building!

[@laughingwithacupofcoffee]

Minecraft is a great game, even when I tell people I still play Minecraft in my free time. People are always surprised and think my hobby is childish. I'm 24 and I'm grateful that I got the chance to play this wonderful game since 2011. Like you said "it's more than just a game to us.", your delivery was absolutely on point and truly inspiring. I hope to continue to play this game for as long as possible and never get bored.

[@zelibeli]

I was watching a KZbin yesterday, that came up in my recommended... it was about Gen Z (the youtuber is Gen Z) being really fixated on hobbies being cringe. And she was kinda rallying against that... that it's of greater personal value to our lives to have passion and desire for deep diving and educating in our areas of interest. She very bluntly said something like, it's okay to develop a personality. She was talking more in the realm of anime and k-pop but I think the point is very valid for most areas of interest. I was watching from my family youtube channel on our tv so it's not in my history, but if I find it again, I'll share it here.

[@LostBobbinCraft]

I started playing during the pandemic and got hooked! No one expected mom to turn into a gamer and then KZbinr…

[@zelibeli]

That's amazing! Minecraft has a way of sparking creativity in the most unexpected ways.

[@Blist01]

I’ve been playing Minecraft at least like 500 hours a year since 2013

[@zelibeli]

That's amazing consistency!

[@martapowaka5804]

I started playing mc when I was 20, my siblings where young teenagers so we played together. My mum saw us and wanted to try and she loved it! Now she is over 50 and she loves to go to the mines on the adventure with us, never alone 😊

[@zelibeli]

That's so awesome! She has a built in forever-multiplayer team!

[@rosedeeds-stuff-and-things]

Ive been pleasantly surprised to meet people and peers who also enjoy the game as adults. its great for helping kids developing creative skills, and its also wonderful for all ages to just play, farm, relax, or build impossible things. it inspires curiosity, creativity, and exploration. it can be a fighting game where you clear out caves in search of treasure or battle creatures in a hellish landscape. Or you can collect flowers and go fishing! its just a wonderful game wonderful. I've been having the best time ever getting back into the game recently

[@zelibeli]

Absolutely. It's an incredible choose your own adventure for any age, and that adventure can be very developmental. Glad you're back into it!

[@RedBlueNinja]

i'm going to say something that may be a little bit too reaching and i'm probably just thinking too hard but i think everyone deep down has a part of themselves that wants to live in a world like minecraft. as harsh as it would be, a world where you can just do whatever you want would be so liberating. you want a house, you build it. you want food, you grow it. you want resources, you go exploring. minecraft is a post-apocalyptic anarchist world and yet is one of the most zen gaming experiences you can have. i think it's popularity says a lot about us as humans, or maybe i should consider moving to the country. either way, minecraft is awesome.

[@zelibeli]

I love exploring thoughts like this. I think that Minecraft offers a unique blend of freedom and adventure that resonates with our innate desire for exploration and creativity.

[@dee23gaming]

I started playing Minecraft when I was 13. I'm turning 26, and I still play it sometimes. But life can keep me from enjoying Minecraft, and other games, because it becomes a whole existential crisis. There's something really depressing knowing that whatever you do in a game like Minecraft, nobody will care, you're alone with what you do, and it won't prepare you for the rough economic future we're having with inflation, AI, bad job market, etc. So playing any game nowadays for me is not fun as it used to be, because my mind can't stop thinking about my immediate problems. Even if I do become financially stable, I don't think I'll ever enjoy games again like I used to. The only thing I look forward to these days is sleep.

[@zelibeli]

I understand how life's challenges can make it difficult to enjoy games like Minecraft. While gaming can offer a temporary escape and even mental health benefits, it's important to address the underlying issues causing stress. You have to find that balance. Engaging in activities that promote relaxation and also seeking support can be beneficial. But it is okay to let yourself have a break. Maybe single player Minecraft isn't that break for you. Maybe you'd enjoy a multiplayer experience. Maybe your form of escape is a different game or different hobby. Maybe you prefer a hike in the real world. If you like creating something that others will enjoy, maybe you could join a local theatre group. Maybe you want to create something physical like with woodworking or knitting or find that zen by helping others in the form of volunteer work... Whatever your thing is, it's good for your self care to balance your work on real world issues with allowance of personal enjoyment. EDIT: Also I'm not a therapist or qualified to give actual life advice. I just over-mommed right there. Sorry. :)

[@dawnmorris2890]

Hi, im 57 and have been playing for 2years,this game has helped me cope with some very difficult times and possibly has saved my sanity on more than 1 occasion. Thanks for sharing, keep building x

[@theadventuresofsolykos]

Played minecraft for the first time at 37. It is my absolute go to game now, and it has taught me so much about myself.

[@MrSelfDestructMC]

I'm also a 49y/o Minecrafter. Can't keep me away!

[@zelibeli]

lol, wouldn't dream of trying! /highfive

[@ZazaLoveism]

42 and just started this year.

[@zelibeli]

Of course, I would never give up my experiences in Minecraft throughout the years, but there is something I envy about people who are in that real new discovery zone. Enjoy your moments!

[@mrkimj]

Im 40 and still playing this game. It is so relaxing.

[@zelibeli]

It can be. I've taken out massive hills or made crazy long tunnels through the ground, and just moving dirt is nice sometimes.

[@mrkimj]

@zelibeli yeah, same. I can dig for hours. 🙂

[@ExaltedJay]

True gamer 💯

[@zelibeli]

Thank you! I appreciate your support. 😊

[@Elotron]

All the Hermitcraft members are adults who made Minecraft a living

[@zelibeli]

Absolutely, it's inspiring to see how many adults, through talent and hard work, have turned their passion for Minecraft into a career. The Hermitcraft community is a great example of that. I'm a big fan.

I’m 63 and play a lot of Minecraft. What can I say? I don’t like Bingo!

[@zelibeli]

lol! It's okay to like Bingo, but yes, it's okay to not like Bingo too! 😂

I started to play with my kids when they where small and got hooked. I have also often used it as a pedagogic tool at the school I work in. Minecraft is great for autistic kids. They might not be able to collaborate in person but often they can do it in Minecraft.

[@zelibeli]

As an education tool, it's incredible. I'm not as familiar with it but there's also so much with Minecraft.edu that educators are doing.

[@myeroku4182]

49 and still playing Minecraft!! .. and Im not even good at it lol

[@zelibeli]

oh, you notice I didn't claim to be good at any of it!