What Kind of Video Games Does Your Marketing Team Play?

When I interviewed for my first job in marketing, I didn’t expect the question that would change how I think about people and teamwork forever: “What kind of video games do you play?”

At the time, the team was a group of passionate gamers. They played Team Fortress together as a way to bond and blow off steam. Their goal wasn’t just to find someone with the right skills—it was to find someone who could fit into their culture. I told them I played Final Fantasy XI, even though they were more into World of Warcraft. Despite the differences, we connected. The shared enthusiasm for gaming became a bridge that brought us together.

That question stuck with me, and it’s one I still use when I interview people. But now, it’s about more than just culture. It’s about understanding how people think, solve problems, and approach challenges in both life and business. The way someone talks about their favorite game tells you so much about their mindset, their values, and even their aspirations.

For instance, my daughter loves Pokémon. Watching her play reminds me of the importance of curiosity and creativity. She lights up with excitement when she discovers something new, whether it’s a hidden Pokémon in the game or a new way to solve a puzzle. Her passion for building a diverse team of creatures mirrors the qualities of someone who thrives in collaborative environments—someone who sees the value in different perspectives and finds joy in nurturing potential, whether in others or in herself.

My wife, on the other hand, has a soft spot for Spyro the Dragon. Her love for the game reflects her knack for seeing beauty in the small things. She enjoys the process of exploration and discovery, not just the end goal. Watching her play, I see someone who brings positivity and creativity into every challenge. It’s not just about defeating enemies or completing levels for her—it’s about finding joy in the journey and noticing the details that others might overlook.

Then there are the professionals I’ve worked with who enjoy games like Call of Duty or Fortnite. These are people who thrive in high-pressure environments. They’re not afraid of competition or making split-second decisions. They understand the value of teamwork, but they’re also bold enough to take the lead when the moment calls for it. Their focus and resilience are traits you can count on, whether it’s in a game or in a boardroom.

As for me, my go-to games are Civilization VI, Farthest Frontier, and Startup Panic. I love the long-term planning and strategy these games require. They’re about building something from the ground up, piece by piece, and then watching it grow and flourish. For me, these games reflect the joy I find in creating systems and solving complex problems. I love thinking through the possibilities, anticipating challenges, and then leading the way to a solution. There’s nothing more satisfying than seeing a plan come together after careful thought and deliberate action.

Games are more than just entertainment. They’re a reflection of who we are and how we navigate the world. Whether it’s nurturing a team like in Pokémon, exploring new frontiers like in Spyro, or leading through challenges like in Call of Duty, our favorite games tell a story about us.

So, I’ll ask you the same question that changed how I think about people: What kind of video games does your marketing team play? Maybe they don’t play at all—but if they do, their answers might surprise you.