Instead of my usual topic of Super Smash Bros., we're going to talk about something different and much more mellow. Specifically, Minecraft.

While it's not exactly anything new. It's no secret that Minecraft has made quite a name for itself and continues to stand strong to this day. By looking around, you'll find playthroughs, animations, live streams, merchandise, countless tutorials and much more. So why has Minecraft become a familiar title to gamers everywhere? Hmm, I wonder . . .

Let's start with the most fundamental feature: Building. Sure enough, that's all there is to it. In Minecraft, the sky is the limit on what can be constructed. From simple square houses to elaborate mansions, castles & other remarkable structures, along with railroad networks, redstone contraptions, pixel art and so on, one's imagination can really run wild, especially with the unlimited resources available in Creative Mode.

What about artistic aspects? Truthfully, the majority of Minecraft's graphics are literally blocky, and probably wouldn't fall under the title of "Masterpiece." However, this simple, yet unorthodox design is exactly what's so eye-catching, and what distinguishes Minecraft from other games in the graphics department. And then there's the game's wide variety of unforgettable music.

Now for the more adventurous side to Minecraft: Survival Mode. So each journey begins in a randomly generated vast outdoor world where trees don't fall down. The basic idea is to live off the land and gather resources by means of crafting several tools & items and using them to mine, farm, fish, fight nocturnal monsters that want you dead and far more. Eventually, you'll go on expeditions inside dark & sometimes labyrinthine underground caves to search for iron, diamonds & other goodies while also watching out for Creepers & other monsters, trying to avoid getting lost and occasionally hearing the spine-chilling ambient sounds. Later, you'll venture to the menacing Nether, the literal Hell of Minecraft, and then over to the End to face the Ender Dragon. Last, but definitely not least, you'll receive the profound End Poem. As in Creative Mode, there are no set objectives, and the chief purpose remains the same: enjoying yourself.

So why has Minecraft become such an icon in gaming culture? Well, a lot of reasons, but it most likely boils down to the game's simplicity, the freedom the player is granted and how there's no right or wrong way to enjoy any of it. Not to mention, no two adventures are quite the same, and the action is essentially endless, which leaves the player potentially hungry for more. That's the kind of game that's bound to create many long-lasting memories.

Truthfully, there are folks who think Minecraft is utter garbage and a complete waste of time. But you know what? That's okay, because they're free to believe whatever they want, and nobody needs to tell them otherwise. But for those who are willing to give it the time of day, it's fair to assume that Minecraft will continue to inspire many gamers for a long time to come.