©(Janzen Madsen via AP)
Pre-reading Questions:
I will read each question. Then, please answer them.
- What kind of game would you enjoy if you could design it yourself?
- What activities help you feel calm after a busy day?
Vocabulary:
I will read the words, meanings, and sample sentences. Then, repeat after me.
- gameplay /GEYM-pley/
- setting /SET-ing/
- soundtrack /SOUND-trak/
- preference /PREF-er-uhns/
- ignore /ig-NAWR/
[noun] – the way in which a game is played, including rules, challenges, and player interaction
The new racing game has exciting gameplay with fast cars and tricky tracks.
[noun] – the place or environment where an activity or event happens
The story takes place in a small village setting near the mountains.
[noun] – the recorded music that accompanies a movie, game, or show
The movie’s soundtrack was filled with emotional piano pieces.
[noun] – thing that a person likes more than others; choice based on personal taste
The survey showed that most people had a preference for online shopping.
[verb] – to pay no attention to something or someone
The company ignores customer complaints at its own risk.
Article Reading:
Please read the whole article. Then, I will check your pronunciation and intonation.
A Roblox game called Grow a Garden became a major success in the gaming world in late June 2025. According to Roblox data, it reached 21.6 million players at the same time, breaking Fortnite’s record of 15.2 million. A 16-year-old developer created the game in just a few days. It is known for calm gameplay, where players grow plants and animals, trade goods, and interact in a relaxed setting. Its design, similar to Minecraft, and its classical music soundtrack have increased its appeal. Analysts said the game’s popularity could raise Roblox’s quarterly earnings above Wall Street expectations. The rise of the game came soon after the delay of Grand Theft Auto 6, leading to discussion about changing player preferences and the meaning of “gamer.”
Players start with an empty plot, basic seeds, and in-game currency. They plant, harvest, and sell crops to get better seeds, animals, or tools. Janzen Madsen, CEO of Splitting Point Studios, warned that the gaming industry could fall behind if it ignores the growth of “cozy” games that focus on creativity and community. The game includes cooperative features such as a global seed shop and help from other players. Experts at Common Sense Media said that, with proper supervision, games like Grow a Garden can encourage creativity, coding skills, and family interaction, showing a cultural shift toward calmer, more immersive games.
Players start with an empty plot, basic seeds, and in-game currency. They plant, harvest, and sell crops to get better seeds, animals, or tools. Janzen Madsen, CEO of Splitting Point Studios, warned that the gaming industry could fall behind if it ignores the growth of “cozy” games that focus on creativity and community. The game includes cooperative features such as a global seed shop and help from other players. Experts at Common Sense Media said that, with proper supervision, games like Grow a Garden can encourage creativity, coding skills, and family interaction, showing a cultural shift toward calmer, more immersive games.
Comprehension Questions:
I will read each question. Then, please answer them based on the article.
- Who created Grow a Garden?
- What can players grow in Grow a Garden?
- Which game does Grow a Garden’s design look similar to?
- What do players start with in the game?
- What can players buy after selling crops?
Discussion Questions:
I will read each question. Then, please answer them.
- Have you ever played a game with calm music or a relaxing style? If so, how did it make you feel? If not, what kind of music would you like to hear in a game?
- Have you ever played a game where you grow plants or take care of animals? If so, what did you like most about it? If not, what kind of game would you like to try?
- Do you agree that games can help people be more creative?
- Why do you think Grow a Garden became more popular than other games?
- What could game companies learn from the success of Grow a Garden?