Mums get a bad rap for not understanding the world of video games, but have you ever tried sitting down and walking yours through how much wholesome fun it can be? The developers of Paleo Pines did, and it went…well about how you’d expect. Some had a roarsome time, and some might have been a little too excited to put the controller down. Regardless of their reactions, it was special getting to share something we’ve poured so much passion into—and our mums were still proud of us even if they didn’t all quite get it! If you’re ready to introduce your own mum to the world of video games, here are a few handy tips to guide you from our experiences.
Tip #1: Lure them in with an adorable farming sim
Lucky for us we created a cozy game with no high stakes and nothing to fear in the friendly world of Paleo Pines. It’s the perfect genre for introducing someone to video games who has never picked up a controller before. The straightforward tutorial, whimsical scenery, and laid-back vibes made it (mostly) a stress-free experience for learning the ropes, exploring the world, and suggesting next steps when it wasn’t intuitive to a new gamer where to go. And if that’s not enough to convince your mum, you can also PET DINOS! The wholesome (and educational!) component of befriending various dino breeds is sure to capture their interest.
Tip #2: Start with the controller basics
To someone used to playing farming sim games, or video games in general, various mechanics might be intuitive or expected, like storing and interacting with items. But to someone who has never played before, moving your character while correcting your camera angle can be a bit of a pat-your-head and rub-your-stomach challenge. Explain the basic functions of all the controls, and give your mum space to play around and get used to it. It might take some time for it to come naturally, so offer plenty of encouragement to keep your mum from getting frustrated! Gentle reminders of what to do when she finds her screen once again staring at the sky can also go a long way.
Tip #3: Don’t spoil the fun of learning and exploring at your own pace
It might be tempting to tell her exactly what to do and where to go next to maximize each in-game day, but don’t forget there is magic to learning and exploring at your own pace. If your mum wants to pick fights with NPCs or spend time admiring the reading area in Pebble Plaza because it perfectly matches her outfit, let her enjoy leisurely exploring her surroundings. Some of our mums loved taking time to soak up all the details. What you find to be fun in the game might be very different, so sit back and only offer help when it’s requested. Too much input can be overwhelming to someone who is still trying to figure out how to put the watering can back into her inventory.
Tip #4: Let them unleash their own creativity
Once our mums got the hang of the mechanics, we were amazed by the depth of their creativity! From dino pens to decor to farm plots, we saw some ranch setups that had us ready to call our realtors. Once again, here is where micromanaging someone’s video game learning experience can be a major hindrance. If you let them explore the possibilities without much input, they can make it their own, and get excited to come back for more when you’re done!
Tip #5: Bond over all your favorite moments
For many players, video games can be all about community. Get excited about that first dino your mum befriends, and despair over the one that got away. Being silly and spending quality time together can make it a really special experience for both of you. And if she really liked the game, show her where people are talking about it online and how to swap tips about where to find the rare species and which crops to grow to win over that picky T-rex. (Join the Paleo Pines Discord here!) Inviting her into the game’s community can help your mum feel included in something bigger, and excited to share her own stories and tips from her playthrough!
Introducing your mum to video games can be a challenge, but trust us, it’s worth it! But be warned…pretty soon your mum will be asking for a console for her next birthday.
If you’re looking for a great game to get your mum started, Paleo Pines is available to order now on Xbox One and Xbox Series X|S. For more information on Paleo Pines and Modus Games, visit www.PaleoPines.com or follow @PaleoPines on Twitter and Discord, and @modusgames on Twitter, Facebook, Instagram, and Discord.
Paleo Pines
Modus Games
Set out with your dino companion, Lucky, to uncover the island’s secrets and discover new dinos. Your arrival on the island is met with welcome curiosity by the local townsfolk who can help you on your quest (and just might give you more work to do!). Together with Lucky, grow crops, assist local villagers, befriend adorable dinosaurs, and unearth the island’s lost history to build your cozy dino sanctuary.
Embark on Your Dino Quest
Set off on a lively adventure with your dino pal, Lucky, who you’ve known since she was just an egg. Is she the last of her kind? The other Parasaurolophus are missing, and it’s up to you and Lucky to uncover their whereabouts. Explore Paleo Pines, a charming island filled with friendly townsfolk and hidden corners. Build a new home, make friends, and unravel the island’s lost history. Get ready for a journey filled with delightful discoveries alongside your trusty steed Lucky!
Create Your Cozy Dino Sanctuary
Set up your home base on the island as you go about your parasaurolophus quest. Paleo Pines is a place where you can express your individuality and creativity; no two ranches are the same! Build square pens, or not (although the locals might have something to say about that!). Use decor to build a romantic garden, give your ranch a cozy woodland vibe, or go full-on-farmer with rows and rows of tilled soil. Furthermore, customize your character as you like with a variety of features, curate a colorful collection of clothing—with different items to be found in each area—and change your style using the wardrobe!
Discover and Befriend Dinosaurs
The island of Paleo Pines is a dino lover’s dream! A collection of cheeky dinosaurs roam the wild areas waiting to become your friends, as well as ranch helpers. Coax them by mimicking their calls with your flute, then seal the deal with a tasty treat and trustworthy nose boop! Gain their trust by creating cozy pens and learning what keeps them happy. Dinos move around and some are harder to find than others, or may appear only under special conditions, so new discoveries await you as you explore the island. As your ranch grows, you’ll soon have a dino haven for all your new friends. Check out the Dino Journal to learn all about the creatures that roam the island.
Master the Art of Dino Ranching
Farm to your heart’s content, growing crops all year round with (and for) your dino besties! Start out planting and watering by hand, but earn your new friends’ trust and they’ll help you deliver a roarsome harvest that you can trade with the townsfolk. As your ranch grows, you’ll learn that each dino has a special farming skill to help you with your tasks. With a bit of love, care, and attention to detail, you can grow the highest quality produce in all of Paleo Pines. Soon you and your dino ranch hands will be the talk of the market!
Explore Enchanting Landscapes
There’s plenty to explore out in the wilds of Paleo Pines, from the flowery fields of Veridian Valley to the red canyons of Ariacotta. Make the most of each day by venturing throughout the lush landscapes across the island, each with their own charm, collectable items, and dinos to discover. Take a leisurely stroll through green meadows, foraging for wild crops as you go, or hop on your trusty dino mount on a hunt for hidden corners. Pause to watch wild dinosaurs playfully interact with each other, right before your very eyes. You’ll never run out of things to find or dinosaurs to befriend!
Befriend a Charming Community
A quirky (and friendly!) array of townsfolk on the island can’t wait to meet you and help you on your quest. Granny might have a stubborn side, but get to know her and she’s an ol’ softie. Building friendships within the community is just as important as building friendships with your dinosaurs. As you ride dinos, farm, and explore, you will come across new characters, each with their own story, items or problems to share, and knowledge to exchange. Help them out day or night by completing quests, opening up new areas, and visiting the stores and community hubs. And who knows—they may even gift you something to spruce up your ranch!
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