Online video games are one of the biggest growth areas in interactive entertainment. Role playing game World of Warcraft sold almost 400,000 copies in two days when it went on sale in Europe.
Some gamers admit to playing for up to 20 hours in one stretch - so are these game bad for you or are they just harmless diversions from reality?
Gaming counsellor Liz Woolley and gamer Lynn Hall give their verdicts.
Games, video, computer, online games, PlayStations, etc can be used as entertainment and stress relief by many.
For shut-ins, it is a great tool that can offer hours of enjoyment, and interaction with the outside world.
For some, the enjoyment turns to suffering when they become "addicted" to the games.
They no longer have the "choice" to play, but are driven to play.
They leave their real lives and join others in a fantasy land, and they can`t leave. They no longer bathe, clean house, interact with family and friends, or go outside
They stop eating properly and do not get enough sleep. They barely leave this new fantasy life, to do anything else. I do not believe all online games are inherently bad or evil.
But I do know, however, that some of the game manufacturers do require their game developers to have degrees in psychology to make them even more addictive.
It can rob you of your spare time - not so bad - but it can also rob you of time you should be spending with friends and family.
I know that any computer game can become addictive.
It all boils down to whether you have enough willpower to tear yourself away from whatever is keeping you amused.
BBCNews
sections: Society, World News |
Russian News
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