Jon is a freelance contributing writer at Canvas8 and a Development Communication graduate who works as a knowledge management officer in the health sector. With aspirations in journalism and documentary filmmaking, he is deeply committed to human rights advocacy. Outside of his professional pursuits, Jon is a passionate film buff and playlist enthusiast, spending plenty of time exploring his interests online.

In today’s hyper-connected globe, the meaning of national identity is no longer rigid, and we’re seeing a dissolution of cultural borders as we travel through our devices. This shift in mentality is happening against a turbulent geopolitical backdrop as countries prioritise regional allies.

Border Reorder

Navigating reality has become an almost constant shock to the system. With the ongoing cost of living crisis, wars, political polarisation, and global environmental issues, life’s stresses are becoming increasingly difficult to escape. With individuals and collectives in a perpetual state of disturbance, people are increasingly seeking reprieve.

If the notion of escape was previously more transient, people are growing more invested in constructing a permanent refuge through world-building and community connections. Global fandoms, Australia’s board game renaissance, and the flourishing rave culture in the UK are examples of alternative realities that allow people to find joy and supportive networks. Many are also finding embodied escapes through psychedelics, VR meditations, and manifestations.

People are increasingly trading a quick hit of holiday serotonin for an emotional release one can get without leaving the home. Travel excess is undoubtedly on the rise, but TikTok’s #UltimateWorldCruise saw millions of people escape vicariously through their screens by witnessing creators share their experiences of a nine-month Royal Caribbean cruise, with its dramas, mishaps, and relatable characters. Elsewhere, one TikToker who decided to build a tunnel network under her house purely to keep herself “preoccupied” gained a captive online audience – demonstrating how people are increasingly interested in absurd departures from everyday life.

People are finding freedom in the unhinged by embracing new levels of honesty about mental health. ‘Yearnposting’ reflects a more deliberate engagement with anxiety and dissatisfaction, while others are opting for off-the-rails candour or just dissociating completely. Meanwhile, trends like ‘feral girl summer’, ‘bedrotting’, and ‘goblin mode’ have seen people construct new lifestyles and outlooks for themselves – because reality doesn’t cut it.

Essential Escapism

Kristine Dean is a graduate of Bachelor of Science in Communication and English and currently works in communication for development. Based in the Philippines, she is a passionate Nintendo enthusiast and an avid small toy collector, blending her love for gaming and collectables with her professional pursuits.

Japan

Toys and hobbies

Nintendo Life

ReadWrite

Exputer

DMFA

Nippon

Mercator

Nikkei Asia

Kyodo News

The Japan Times

Reuters

Sora News

Interview with Kristine Dean conducted by the author

Japan Today

Humanium

Sindoshipping

Ulatus

Recruit Holdings

Automaton

Nintendo's influence spans from family-friendly entertainment and 5-bit adventures to driving lucrative career opportunities within Japan's thriving gaming industry. As analogue experiences help people cope in a crisis-stricken world, Nintendo’s toys and games now serve as social anchors.