Co-op Mode

Many of the games I like involve, or at least allow, cooperation between the players. This is especially true in D&D, where the game is built around the idea of players working together to achieve common goals, but it's also true of many other games. Many Mario games support multi-player cooperation, as do many FPS games. Sure, those games allow players to play against each other, but they also allow players to play on the same team. I enjoy co-op a lot more than competitive play because, in competitive play, one player wins while the other players lose, which can lead to hard feelings between the players, but in co-op mode, all the players win or lose together, which can build camaraderie. In many cases, win or lose, I'd rather play with my friends than play against them.

Unfortunately, not all games allow for multi-player co-op modes; however, life itself does. With almost anything we can do, we can help each other do it. Some activities, such as taking tests, must be done alone, but we can still study together, and we can find other ways to cooperate in other situations. Cooperation is almost always an option.

In fact, in a spiritual sense, cooperation is essentially required. Unless we somehow manage to pass all the tests of life perfectly, we need the help of our Savior and His cleansing Atonement. We also regularly require guidance from God and His Holy Spirit, who can serve as our constant companion, our "Player Two," even in situations that don't normally allow cooperation, like in tests. If we keep the Spirit with us, we can always have a co-op partner, in addition to our mortal friends and families.

Life is a tough game, and has some punishing mechanics, but at least it allows for a good deal of multi-player cooperation, which makes the game a lot easier. So, if there's a part of the game you're struggling with, don't hesitate to seek out the help of a friend. It'll help the game get a bit easier, and besides, it's more fun playing together than it is playing alone.