A Gamer’s guide to load shedding

No, it is not the end of the world, nor have the zombies taken over the power plant, it is just Eskom load shedding.

Although I would have preferred a zombie outbreak instead – it would have been more fun than sitting in the dark.

But fear not, I am here to shed some light on what you can do to stay entertained during a blackout.

Handhelds

I know this might seem like the obvious alternative to gaming without a power outlet, but since the whole “power grid in shambles” story I have downloaded a ton of games onto my PS Vita and Nintendo 3DS.

What to play

Rogue Legacy – PS Vita (Free with PlayStation Plus)
Suikoden – PS Vita (R73.00 PlayStation Store)
Super Smash Bros – 3DS (R455.00 Nintendo eShop)
MediEvil – PSP/ PS Vita (R73.00 PlayStation Store)

Estimated battery life

PS Vita – ±6 hours
Ninetndo 3DS – ±5 hours
PSP – ±5 hours

Cellphones

Now this is important: make sure you charge your phone before the power gets cut.

Although our smartphones might not offer the best battery life while playing high-end mobile games, they can still help us get through the load shedding.

What to play

Game of Thrones Episode 2 – R55.11 (Google Play)
Trails Xtreme 4 – Free (Google Play)
VainGlory – Free (App Store)
World of Warriors – Free (App Store)

Laptops

You may have thought of this one already, but I put it here just in case.

Most of you probably own a laptop that does not boast the Alienware logo, but that is okay as these games do not need super powered, high-priced machines to run.

What to play

Grand Theft Auto: San Andreas – $14.99 (Steam)
Half-Life – $9.99 (Steam)
Need for Speed Pro Street – R49.95 (Origin)

Something less powerful will suffice.

Board Games

Board games, not bored games.

Do not even try to talk yourself out of a good session of Monopoly with friends or family. The best thing about it is that it seemingly lasts forever (or until someone kicks the board over).

What to play