Media and Video Games

Video game controversies have highly increased in the media in recent years. The media has had a significant impact in the way video games are perceived in society and as a result negative behaviors including addiction. Aggression and violence have all been linked to video games.

Although video games have been mainstream since the 1970s, I believe there is no logical reason as to why they are treated as ‘new’ or ‘scary’ in 2014. Video games in the media, in my opinion are a guaranteed way to get everyone’s attention. Here are three scenarios the media have blamed video games at a point in time.

#1 Effects were blamed for a school shooting

It is suggested that real-world violence derives from video game effects where guns, blood and violence are all evident. The game blaming platform has been an easy target for the media to attack in hopes to find reasoning behind their beliefs.

#2 Grand Theft Auto supposedly encourages drunken driving and car surfing

This particular game involves cursing, drug use, prostitution, torture, crude stereotypes and murder. I feel that the media believes this game encourages real-life reckless driving habits. This game also gives a real-life experience, when drinking and driving the screen becomes shaky and blurry.

#3 Countless hoaxes have been reported regarding video games

I have constantly heard reports blaming video games for exhaustion, loss of circulation and loss of consciousness in gamers. These reports always end in apologies from the media as they are false assumptions.

In my opinion, video games are harmless. Sure they may be time-consuming and expose negative behavior traits and imagery but that is why there are age restrictions and ratings on every game. It is the parents and salespeople’s responsibility to ensure their children and customers are not sold a game that is not age appropriate.

- Huda