Who is the Grandma Who Plays Games?
Fast answer first. Then use the tabs or video for more detail.
- Watch the video explanation below for a faster overview.
- Game mechanics may change with updates or patches.
- Use this block to get the short answer without scrolling the whole page.
- Read the FAQ section if the article has one.
- Use the table of contents to jump straight to the detailed section you need.
- Watch the video first, then skim the article for specifics.
The phrase “grandma who plays games” encompasses a diverse and growing community, but it most often refers to Shirley Curry, also lovingly known as Skyrim Grandma. She is an American YouTuber and gamer who gained widespread popularity for her engaging The Elder Scrolls V: Skyrim gameplay videos. However, it is crucial to acknowledge that Shirley is not alone; a growing number of older women are embracing gaming and carving out their own spaces in the online gaming world. Among these, Hamako Mori, the Japanese “Gamer Grandma,” holds the Guinness World Record as the oldest gaming YouTuber.
Diving Deep into the World of Gaming Grandmas
While Shirley Curry and Hamako Mori are perhaps the most well-known figures, the world of “gaming grandmas” extends far beyond these two iconic figures. These women challenge stereotypes, proving that gaming is not solely the domain of the young. They bring a unique perspective and a wealth of life experience to their gameplay, captivating audiences of all ages.
Shirley Curry: The Skyrim Legend
Shirley Curry (born April 2, 1936), rose to prominence after her Skyrim gameplay videos went viral in 2015. Her warm personality, genuine enthusiasm for the game, and endearingly “grandma-like” commentary resonated with viewers, attracting a massive following. She has since become a symbol of inclusivity in gaming and an inspiration to older gamers. Curry’s journey into gaming began with the strategy game Civilization II and quickly expanded with the Elder Scrolls series. Beyond her engaging gameplay, what sets her apart is the authentic connection she fosters with her audience. Shirley’s journey is also one of resilience as she has spoken publicly about her stroke and the memory loss she has experienced around Skyrim. However, her love of the game keeps her coming back. Sadly, in recent news she announced that Skyrim will be her last ever game.
Hamako Mori: The Esports Pioneer
Hamako Mori (born February 18, 1930), known as Gamer Grandma, is a Japanese video game YouTuber and esports player. She is recognized by Guinness World Records as the oldest gaming YouTuber. Mori has been playing video games since 1981, demonstrating a lifelong passion for the medium. Her dedication and skill have earned her a devoted following, and she continues to inspire gamers of all ages to pursue their passions. Hamako specializes in a range of games, including action titles and RPGs. Her energy and enthusiasm are infectious, and she showcases that gaming has no age limit.
The Growing Phenomenon
The rise of gaming grandmas is reflective of broader demographic shifts within the gaming community. The average age of gamers is increasing, and more older adults are discovering the joys of gaming. This trend is driven by several factors, including:
- Increased Accessibility: Gaming is becoming more accessible thanks to mobile gaming, user-friendly consoles, and online platforms.
- Cognitive Benefits: Studies suggest that playing video games can improve cognitive function, memory, and reaction time in older adults. See also the research done by the Games Learning Society on GamesLearningSociety.org.
- Social Connection: Online gaming provides opportunities for social interaction and connection, combating loneliness and isolation.
- Entertainment and Stress Relief: Gaming offers a fun and engaging way to relax, de-stress, and escape from everyday worries.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Is Skyrim Grandma in Starfield?
No, Shirley Curry has stated that she did not make a cameo in Starfield and will not be playing the game while she waits for Elder Scrolls 6.
2. What happened to Shirley Curry?
Shirley Curry suffered a stroke and is undergoing therapy and in-home care. She has also spoken publicly about memory loss and how it has affected her game play.
3. Which 84 year old gamer has more than 900,000 “grandkids”?
Shirley Curry is the 84-year-old gamer who has cultivated a large YouTube following, often referred to as her “grandkids.”
4. Did Skyrim Grandma have a stroke?
Yes, Shirley Curry, also known as “Skyrim Grandma,” recently revealed that she suffered a stroke.
5. Is gaming grandma still alive?
Yes, both Shirley Curry and Hamako Mori (Gamer Grandma) are still alive.
6. Are there 50 year old gamers?
Yes, a significant and growing number of adults over 50 play video games. About 45% of older adults said they played video games in 2022, up from 38% six years earlier.
7. Can a 70 year old play video games?
Absolutely! There is no age limit to playing video games.
8. Who is the oldest female gamer?
Hamako Mori, also known as Gamer Grandma, is currently recognized as the oldest gaming YouTuber in the world.
9. How did Shirley Curry get into Skyrim?
Shirley Curry was introduced to gaming by her son and started playing Civilization II. She later discovered Skyrim and began creating gameplay videos on YouTube.
10. Can you romance in Starfield?
Yes, Starfield allows players to romance companions, unlocking new quests, gifts, and XP bonuses.
11. Can you have your own kids in Skyrim?
Yes, with the Hearthfire DLC, players can adopt children in Skyrim.
12. Is 25 too old for gaming?
No, 25 is not too old for gaming. The average gamer age is 35.
13. What age is OK for video games?
Recommendations vary by age group. For kids over 6, it’s recommended to limit gaming to 60 minutes on school days and 2 hours on non-school days.
14. Who is the youngest gamer ever?
Victor De Leon III, also known as Lil Poison, is recognized as the youngest professional video game player.
15. Is the average gamer 35 years old?
Yes, the average age of video game players is around 35 years old.
Conclusion
The phenomenon of “gaming grandmas” like Shirley Curry and Hamako Mori is a testament to the enduring appeal of video games and the growing inclusivity of the gaming community. These women are not only entertaining audiences but also challenging stereotypes, inspiring others, and demonstrating that gaming can be enjoyed at any age. Their stories highlight the power of gaming to connect people, promote cognitive well-being, and enrich lives. With growing numbers of older adults entering the gaming space, we can expect even more stories of passionate gaming grandmas to emerge in the years to come.