01/08/2011

And the most brain-dead activity is…

…playing video games!

It has to be. David Staniforth, who lost his 20-year-old son to a condition developed from playing video games for long periods, knows it is.

Video games are addictive, everyone knows that. They used to be child’s play, but nowadays the fever has cut through generations and captured victims from children to grandparents. They’re also ubiquitous — you can find them on your phone, computer, TV, airplane seat, Internet, and of course through the game consoles.

And with the money behind it, video games are not going away any time soon. In 2010 alone, video game sales in the U.S. totaled $23 billion dollars — more than the movie and music industries combined, which took in $10.6 and $6.9 billion respectively.

Yes, the video game companies are making a lot of money. But exactly what benefit the consumers of these games are getting in return is not very clear.

If you play video games, you may say “It’s just a game. I’m only passing time… Just relaxing.” That’s exactly what drug addicts say about their addiction.

Instead of dismissing what I’m saying here, look at the effects it’s having on your life. The effects don’t lie.

Do you spend hours every week playing?
Does it take you away from other more important duties like work, study, and time with your family?
Do you get angry or upset when something or someone interferes with your game?
Have you become less social with anyone who’s not into gaming like you?

The effects don’t lie. Maybe it’s time to use your brain.

Or what is left of it.

Read this message in portuguese