Vaping: A Route to Quitting or Lowering the Entry Barrier?

20 December 2025

Toby Patrick

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Tobacco consumption is evolving. In the last ten years, the monopoly of cigarettes has been challenged and arguably replaced by e-cigs and vaping. But is this a good thing? Or does it simply offer a new way to consume tobacco? In this article, we’re comparing both sides of the debate and discussing whether vaping offers a route to quitting or if it has merely lowered the entry barrier.

Person refilling a vape device with brown e-liquid labeled "Throne Liquids" in a cozy setting. Close-up of hands and text.

Vaping as a Route to Quitting

It’s easy to see why vaping became popular. The exotic flavours, catchy branding and increased social acceptance compared to cigarettes all contributed towards more people swapping cigarettes for vapes.

But there’s also the fact that vaping is seen as a safer alternative to smoking. Many people still believe that vaping can be harmful, but most would agree that it doesn’t pose the same risk as traditional cigarettes due to the absence of substances such as tar.

As a result, vaping is seen as a good starting point for those who want to quit smoking. It still offers the same instant relief from cravings but in a less harmful way. The next step is to switch from traditional vapes to tobacco-free vapes or nicopods before quitting completely.

Vaping also allows smokers to control their nicotine dose, with vaping liquids ranging in strength all the way down to being nicotine-free. This controlled dosage also lends itself to those who are using vapes to wean themselves off tobacco slowly. In previous years, quitting cigarettes commonly required smokers to go ‘cold turkey’, which is harder.

Vaping as a Lower Entry Barrier

Many would argue that while vaping has become appealing to smokers, it has also become appealing to non-smokers. The improved flavour and taste eliminate common drawbacks of smoking and, coupled with the convenience of devices, it’s easy to see why even non-smokers are attracted to vapes.

We must also credit marketing teams who have done a great job of making vapes look attractive. We see vaping brands advertised at major sporting events, and similar alternatives like snus are trusted even by high-level athletes.

Perhaps the biggest issue with this is that vaping has become more appealing to younger audiences. Alarmingly, over 10% of 11-15 year olds have tried vaping, a figure that would be far lower if we were to compare with cigarettes. Obviously, these people aren’t turning to vaping as a quitting mechanism but are attracted to the flavours and taste, and subsequently running the risk of becoming addicted to nicotine.

Final Thoughts

It’s not as easy as simply deciding whether vaping is good or bad. There are pros and cons of vaping, and some would argue the same applies to traditional cigarettes. It’s important to analyse it from different perspectives. For example, to a lifelong smoker who has tried and failed to stop smoking, vaping may finally offer a solution that works. On the flip side, a young 13-year-old may feel pressured by their peers to try tobacco. And if the tobacco comes in vape form rather than cigarette form, it may appear less dangerous and more appealing.

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A Love Letter to Ahoy: The YouTube Channel That Captivates Through Style, Substance, and Storytelling

Paul Francis
Sep 10, 2024
4 min read

As a huge fan of Ahoy, I can confidently say that there’s nothing quite like the unique art and video style that Stuart Brown presents on his channel. From the first time I watched one of his videos, I was captivated by the meticulous attention to detail, the clean and minimalist visuals, and the soothing cadence of his narration. Stuart Brown’s voice is in a league of its own—both informative and comforting, guiding viewers through complex histories and technical analyses with an ease that few can match.

But What Is Ahoy?

Ahoy is a YouTube channel created by Stuart Brown, a master of video essays primarily focused on video games, gaming history, and the technology that powers them. The channel is renowned for its deep research, high production quality, and engaging storytelling. Each video is not just a presentation of facts but a carefully crafted narrative that ties together historical, cultural, and technical insights in a way that feels both educational and entertaining.

Stuart Brown himself is a bit of an enigma—a meticulous researcher, a talented storyteller, and a skilled visual artist. His work on Ahoy reflects his deep passion for gaming and technology, but it’s also clear that he has a broader interest in history and culture. Brown’s ability to connect these fields makes Ahoy’s content appeal not just to gamers but to anyone with an interest in media studies, history, or technology.

The target audience of Ahoy is diverse. While the core viewership undoubtedly consists of gamers and tech enthusiasts, the channel’s reach extends to historians, artists, and educators. Ahoy’s content is accessible to a wide range of viewers because it transcends the typical boundaries of gaming channels—each video is a piece of art, a historical document, and a narrative journey all rolled into one.

Unveiling the Gems: Ahoy’s Must-Watch Videos

With a catalogue of exceptional content, selecting the best Ahoy videos is a challenging task, but there are certain videos that stand out for their depth, creativity, and impact. Here are five of the most remarkable ones:

"The First Video Game" (2014):
- This video dives into the origins of video games, exploring early contenders for the title of "first" video game. From "Tennis for Two" to "Spacewar!," Stuart Brown uncovers the roots of gaming with his signature blend of thorough research and engaging storytelling. It’s a fascinating exploration of how the medium began, and it raises thought-provoking questions about what truly constitutes a video game.

"A Brief History of Graphics" (2016):
- A visual and historical journey, this video tracks the evolution of computer graphics from the earliest pixelated images to the stunning photorealism of today’s games. Brown’s ability to explain complex technical concepts in an accessible way makes this video a must-watch for anyone interested in the intersection of art and technology.

"The Story of Doom" (2017):
- "Doom" is one of the most iconic first-person shooters ever made, and this video tells the story of its creation, impact, and enduring legacy. Brown delves into the cultural phenomenon that "Doom" became, offering insights into why it continues to be a touchstone in gaming history. The video is a perfect blend of technical analysis and cultural commentary.

"Polybius: The Game That Doesn't Exist" (2017):
- One of Ahoy’s most popular and talked-about videos, this documentary explores the urban legend of "Polybius," a mysterious arcade game rumoured to cause psychological effects in players. Brown’s investigation into the myth is masterful, blending history, speculation, and eerie storytelling in a way that keeps viewers on the edge of their seats.

Community Favorite: "Iconic Arms: The AK-47" (2015)

No discussion of Ahoy would be complete without mentioning the "Iconic Arms" series, and the video on the AK-47 is a standout. In this video, Brown explores the history of the AK-47, its cultural significance, and its representation in video games. It’s a fascinating look at how a single piece of military hardware became an icon, both in the real world and in the digital realms of gaming. The video is a community favourite for its in-depth analysis and the way it ties together historical and cultural threads.

The Four-Byte Burger: A Symbol of Digital Ingenuity

One of the more unusual but deeply fascinating topics covered by Ahoy is the "Four-Byte Burger," which Stuart Brown discusses in his video "A Brief History of Graphics." The "Four-Byte Burger" is an early piece of computer art, representing a hamburger created using only 4 bytes of data—just 32 bits.

When this artwork was created, computer memory and processing power were extremely limited. Despite these constraints, early digital artists and programmers managed to create recognizable images like the "Four-Byte Burger." This piece of art is not just a quirky footnote in the history of computer graphics but also a testament to the ingenuity of early digital pioneers. It’s a symbol of how creativity can flourish even within the strictest of limitations and a reminder of the humble beginnings from which modern digital art has evolved.

Why Ahoy Deserves Your Attention

Ahoy is not just a YouTube channel—it’s a masterclass in how to create compelling, informative, and visually stunning content. Stuart Brown’s unique approach to video essays makes each upload a treat for anyone interested in video games, history, or technology. Whether you’re drawn in by the minimalist art style, the meticulously researched content, or Brown’s soothing narration, there’s something in Ahoy’s catalogue for everyone. For those of us who are fans, Ahoy is more than just a source of entertainment—it’s a source of inspiration, education, and a deeper appreciation for the rich tapestry of gaming history.

https://www.youtube.com/@XboxAhoy/featured