Gaming Roots in Childhood
Matthew Kim, also known as Big Matthew from KARD, shares how his childhood gaming experiences shaped his life and career. A visit to a retro game store in New York City sparked nostalgic memories, particularly of the Super Nintendo Entertainment System. "That’s my dad’s console," he recalls, revealing how his father introduced him to gaming. "He taught me how to play my first game. So all the times that he wanted me off the games, essentially it was his fault."
Family Bonding Through Games
For Kim, gaming memories intertwine with family moments. He fondly remembers playing Madden with his younger brothers, which often escalated into playful shouting matches. Gatherings at his cousins' houses revolved around Halo, where entire families would unite over gaming sessions. These experiences highlight the role that video games played in strengthening familial bonds.
Contrasting Gaming Cultures
As someone who navigates life between the United States and South Korea, Kim noticed a significant skill gap between American and Korean players in Call of Duty. He describes Korean servers as elite training grounds for first-person shooters. "Playing there is good 'practice,'" he explains, before admitting that American lobbies feel like "kind of a breeze" afterward. This observation reflects his unique perspective on gaming across cultures.
The Impact of Gaming on His Career
Kim's gaming experiences mirror his artistic journey, as he adapts to diverse audiences in both music and gaming. His memories include intense Counter-Strike 1.6 sessions at PC cafés and the rhythm challenges of Dance Dance Revolution, which he believes enhanced his hand-eye coordination. Looking back, he expresses gratitude for these formative experiences. "I'm really thankful for gaming right now," he says, emphasizing the importance of gaming in his life.