I saw a gated community for the first time yesterday. Why is it even necessary? It's like a fancy prison

I went with my bestfriend to the fancy area to pick up something he bought online off marketplace. He bought this nice shelving set anyways as we are driving we passed several gated communities. I was shocked because I've never seen one before and I just don't understand the appeal. Those homes all lack soul and look the same. Looks like a big fancy prison. Made me feel uncomfortable honestly. Just feels hostile.