Recently, the online mafia-based game Among Us, has resurrected and taken over the media. In Among Us, players, known as crewmates, fulfill “tasks” across the spacecraft the game setting takes place on. However, among the crewmates is an imposter, who poses as any other player. While the crewmates’ objective is to win the game by either completing all their tasks or discovering the identity of the imposter, the imposter’s objective is to kill off the other players until only one other remains.

However, beyond just being an addictive game, Among Us has offered a platform for numerous wholesome experiences with strangers. The online site hosts thousands of simultaneous games that are available to users all across the globe. And while “stranger-danger” remains a subconscious thought in the backs of players’ minds, many have found themselves bonding with such company over tasks, chat-rooms, or successful double-kills.

“I’ve had countless wholesome experiences playing Among Us,” Laura Ziessler (’23) said. “One time, this guy asked me for relationship advice. He wanted to know if he should ask his best friend out, and of course, I told him to shoot his shot. He asked him on a date, and the other guy said yes! It completely made my day to know that my advice to this random guy playing Among Us ended in a relationship. Really, anything can happen while playing Among Us.”

Odd friendships made over Among Us have proven to last beyond just a round or two over the virtual game. Many have even shared means of contact over social media in order to remain in touch. “I am personally an Avatar fanatic, so I had changed my name to hopefully attract some avatar fans,” Karis Cho (’23) said. “Luckily enough, a girl and I started chatting about it and created a bond over the love for the characters in the show. We even shared social media accounts, including Instagram and Snapchat, and still occasionally talk about our love for Zuko.” 

Not only have Among Us friendships served as sources of entertainment, but they also benefit the mental well being of players. “Among Us allows teens to be social through a screen helping those with social anxiety who cannot make friends in a face-to-face setting,” Serine Jang (’23) said. “ I think Among Us is a positive way to destress and make friends. It’s so fun when you and a stranger whom you are playing with become friends and understand each other.”

Many Tenafly students have taken advantage of the social-interactive aspect of Among Us during classes and clubs. Many peer leadership groups for freshmen have played rounds of Among Us to help students bond with their senior peers, something that has been difficult to do during the pandemic. The Chinese 5H/AP class has even once discussed playing Among Us in Chinese, which would be a good way for students to expand their Chinese vocabulary and practice their oral skills.

Overall, the revival of Among Us has had a phenomenal impact on digital social interaction. From communications between strangers on the internet to gameplay between politicians and popular streamers, it has served as a fun way for us to stay connected amidst the isolating pandemic.