AboutSusannah Expertise I can answer questions relating in depth to: Maple Story, Creature World, Mobs Law. I may be able to answer (but cannot guarantee) answers to a wide range of other internet games.
Experience I have played MMORPGs and MUDs as well as lots of other games for many years.
Expert: Susannah Date: 3/19/2008 Subject: Addictive Games
Question Hello, I'm a student currently doing a research project. Part of the research requires a interveiw from an expert in that subject. My subject is, Are video games addictive? If so, why?
These are my questions I'm hoping you can answer.
1)Are video games addictive?
2)Why or why not?
3)Are they meant to be addictive or not?
4)How do you stop playing if you get addicted?
5)How do you avoid playing too much?
Answer Hi Ethan,
Below are my answers to your questions.
1)Are video games addictive?
Yes they are very addictive, depending on the type and your personality.
2)Why or why not?
They are addictive if you are attracted to them. For instance, if you like medieval things, you may get addicted to World of Warcraft. Or if you like cuter characters, you might get addicted to Maplestory. It also depends if you are competitive (like to beat your friends at levelling and achieving goals in game).
3)Are they meant to be addictive or not?
Yes, video games are made to be addictive because most of them cost the user money. Some video games are promoted as free, but they will always offer you 'extras' if you pay them money. The producers know that if you enjoy the game, you will want to buy things in the game using real money. Therefore they work hard to make sure you love the game.
4)How do you stop playing if you get addicted?
I think the best way is to do one of the following: 1. Stop Cold Turkey. Uninstall the game, stop going to any related sites. 2. Find a new interest (not another game) such as a social group or hobby outside the computer or xbox.
5)How do you avoid playing too much?
It's important to set time limits. Make yourself a promise that you will only spend an hour a day on the game, or tell yourself that if you clean up your room or finish a certain task, you will reward yourself with some game time.
