While I am not a fan of zombies—despite the current craze for them—I do have a variety of interests and hobbies that keep me entertained in my free time. These interests span different areas, from digital games and photography to exploring food and other creative outlets. So, let me take you through a glimpse of the things I enjoy the most.
One of the main things I dedicate my free time to is playing video games. Over the years, I have gathered a collection of favourites, many of which are available on Steam. These games range from strategy-based titles to multiplayer party games, and I have spent hours immersed in each of them. Some of my top favourites include Among Us, Call of War, Chinese Rail Sim, Goose Goose Duck, Marvel Rival, and OpenTTD.
Each of these games offers a different experience, and that is what makes them so engaging for me. For example, Among Us is a social deception game where I have to figure out who among the group is the “imposter” trying to sabotage the mission. It is an exciting game that really gets the mind working and makes me think about human behaviour and how people interact. It’s like a modern twist on old-school mafia or werewolf games.
Call of War is a completely different experience. It is a real-time strategy game set in World War II, where I control a country, manage resources, and lead my military in various battles. It takes patience and planning, which is why I find it so fascinating. I actually played Call of War before it became available on Steam, so you could say I am an early adopter. The in-depth strategies involved in leading troops and managing economies are what keep me hooked.
Then there is Chinese Rail Sim, which appeals to my love for trains and infrastructure. I have always been fascinated by how transportation systems work, and this game lets me experience it virtually. It may not be for everyone, but as a fan of logistics and transport, I really enjoy this simulation.
Another game that holds a special place for me is Goose Goose Duck. It is very similar to Among Us, where geese (instead of crew members) work together while a “duck” sabotages the group. It adds a fun twist to the social deception genre, and it is a nice change of pace from the standard versions of such games. Marvel Rival taps into my love for superheroes and comic books, allowing me to control characters and immerse myself in that world. OpenTTD is more of a complex strategy game that deals with transportation networks—trains, trucks, buses, planes—and building and expanding a transport empire.
While most of these games are on Steam, there are a couple that I play outside of that platform. Gartic Phone is one such game. It is free to play and a fun drawing-based game where players take turns drawing prompts and guessing what the drawings are meant to be. There is something hilarious about seeing how interpretations change as they go from one player to another, and it is always good for a few laughs.
Then, there is Jackbox Party Games, which I play with other Twitch streamers. The game is streamed, and people watching can participate by answering trivia questions or completing creative prompts. While I do not own the games myself, I enjoy joining others in their streams and playing along. There is a great sense of community that comes with streaming, and it allows me to meet people from all over the world while having a good time.
I have paid for most of these games, except for Call of War, which is free to play, and Gartic Phone, which is also free. I do not mind investing in games because they provide entertainment and a way to relax after a long day. Gaming has always been a part of my life, and it is something I enjoy, whether I am playing solo or with friends online.
Beyond gaming, I have another hobby that has stuck with me for years—photography. I actually went to Humber College to study photography, and I learned how to develop film. Back then, the art of film photography was much more common, and the process of developing pictures in a darkroom was a hands-on and rewarding experience. However, as digital cameras and smartphones have taken over, the skill of developing film has become somewhat obsolete.
While my film photography skills might not be as useful today, I still enjoy capturing moments through modern technology. Digital cameras have made photography more accessible, and I continue to explore this art form, whether it is taking photos of landscapes, people, or events. It is still a creative outlet for me, and I appreciate the ability to freeze a moment in time with just a click.
Another passion of mine is food, especially trying new dishes from different cultures. I enjoy exploring various types of cuisine and experiencing the flavours that come from all over the world. There is something special about food, how it connects us to different traditions and cultures, and how it brings people together. Even though I am not a professional chef by any means, I love experimenting with different dishes and finding new favourites.
One thing that sets my love for food apart is how I blend the influences of my Croatian and Peruvian heritage into my preferences. From Croatian delicacies like Cevapi and Zagrebački Odrezak to Peruvian classics like Pollo a la Brasa and Tacu Tacu, I have been shaped by both cuisines. Desserts from both countries hold a special place in my heart too—whether it is Rožata from Croatia or Turrón de Doña Pepa from Peru. It is amazing to see how different flavours and culinary techniques reflect the broader cultural influences I have been exposed to.
Finally, gaming, photography, and food are not the only things I enjoy. I also love exploring different forms of digital media, whether it is streaming content, participating in online communities, or learning more about the digital landscape. Being connected to the digital world allows me to engage with people from various backgrounds, and it has broadened my perspective on many things.
In the end, these hobbies and passions are part of who I am. Whether I am gaming, snapping photos, or tasting new dishes, they provide me with joy and help me stay connected to the world around me. They are more than just hobbies—they are ways of life that allow me to express myself and explore the world in unique and meaningful ways.
