Tinashe, the R&B artist known for her engaging music and performances, has openly shared her enthusiasm for gaming, particularly for Call of Duty: Warzone. This sentiment was evident in her recent conversations with major publications like Rolling Stone and Billboard, where she expressed her ongoing love for the game, even participating in gameplay sessions on platforms such as Gaming While Black in 2022.

Community Response and Representation

Despite her genuine interest, Tinashe has encountered skepticism from some fans regarding her gaming credentials. However, she remains undeterred, stating, “I think it’s something that you kind of expect with the territory and within the culture, and something that I’m definitely used to.”

She further emphasized the significance of representation in gaming, particularly for young women. “Gaming culture is super huge, and especially women — young women — [are] an underappreciated fan community,” Tinashe added. “So, it’s really nice to be able to represent that.”

The Impact of Warzone

Launched in 2020, Call of Duty: Warzone is a free-to-play online first-person shooter that has resonated with many, especially during the pandemic when social connections became essential. Tinashe recalls, “There was just a lot of time, and it was a great way for me to stay social and hang out with my friends and connect with people.”

Return of the Nostalgic Verdansk Map

Recently, Activision announced the much-anticipated return of the Verdansk map to Warzone, a setting that holds a special place in the hearts of fans. Tinashe reflected on this, saying, “It’s the one that we really, I think, formed a lot of our first memories with playing Warzone and really getting into the game. We haven’t had that map for a really long time, and fans have been waiting and waiting and waiting.”

She described Verdansk as a unique blend of diverse environments, stating, “I feel like it has the perfect blend of just the different terrain and the buildings, and it’s just very nostalgic. And you know, it’s fun.”

Gaming on Tour

Tinashe’s dedication to gaming extends beyond her home, as she frequently brings her PlayStation on tour. “I actually always bring my PlayStation on tour, so I set it up in the venues before,” she explained. This allows her to remain connected with gaming during her performances, particularly on bus tours.

Despite her touring commitments, she prefers gaming over recording new music, noting, “I’m not really a big fan of recording while I’m touring because it’s hard for me to split my energy and attention that way.”

Personal Growth and Music Career

With a decade-long career and seven albums, Tinashe has learned to trust her instincts as an artist. “I think the biggest thing that I really rely on now is following my instincts and being really true to who I am and staying in touch with what I like and what is inspiring me,” she stated. This approach, she believes, is essential for personal and professional growth.