I just had to share this thought.
As a fitness professional and someone who has worked in the health field for 20yrs now, I see the negative effects (mental and physical) of technology and the internet, on people I've dealt with over the years. I feel fortunate that I am able to (eventually) catch myself falling into "traps" in that regard as well.
However, of course, there are also an abundance of positives in technology/the internet. As with most things in life, finding some balance works for most. For me, a major 'pro' for the internet is the ability to access information about a game BEFORE you even have it! What a time we live in!
From my recent posts, you may have seen that I immediately fell in love (as I anticipated) with PARKS from the moment I unboxed it. As a nature lover, and someone who gets sucked in by beautiful artwork in games, it was a natural fit (no pun intended). But I am SUPER excited for my boxing day purchases of Terraforming Mars and Architects of the West Kingdom (which should arrive in 3 days or so!) to become members of my growing collection.
Naturally with my excitement, when I'm not playing PARKS right now, I've taken the time to download the rulebooks of my two new games and reading through them. See?! A big time positive of the internet! In addition, I've already watched play-throughs for each as well.
I love learning rules, story behind the games etc... And having some knowledge of how the game is played before unboxing it is that much better. I definitely still have to delve into the rulebook when I unbox the game, but it allows me to get setup and into the game just a tad quicker, so I can enjoy it. :)
Not to mention that this very website wouldn't exist without it. 😄