Video game violence: one gamer speaks out, and it's not what you're expecting

There is certainly a controversy surrounding the "threat" of violent video games. Some believe such games are harmless, while others believe they are a threat. I have personally concluded that video games do, in fact, have a negative impact on gamers. Why, of all people, do I take this stance? I'll tell you:

First of all, violent video games unavoidably cause bad thoughts. The road that leads to action is thought. Thoughts sink into our personality, becoming a part of our very being. I've seen the effect, not only in others' lives, but in my own life. Fortunately, I realized early on that it's something I don't want in my life, and thank goodness I did.

Secondly, violent video games contain appealing characters, and often glorify terrible behavior. The reality is, video games are no longer always about saving the world or defeating evil. One game might star a physically appealing character who participates in crimes ranging from stealing to killing...and for what purpose, one may ask? None whatsoever, in many instances. It's all for the sake of so-called "fun".

Think that's the worst of it? Well, consider this: there is a connection between the player of a video game and what happens on-screen. The onscreen character responds directly according to button presses, etc. that are performed by the player. It may seem insignificant, but, believe me, this interaction draws players into the world of video games in a way movies and TV can only dream of. Gamers don't just sit and watch what's happening: they control what's happening.

Being a gamer myself, I obviously have that unique perspective on why one might disagree with me. Even high-quality studies disagree with me. But it's not about whether violent games cause players to take a weapon to school and go on a shooting rampage. The real havoc occurs in a person's heart and mind. It plays out in a person's family. It demonstrates itself in a person's general behavior and attitude, not to mention their performance in other areas.

To me, there's nothing better than waking up late on a Saturday morning and snuggling in to play The Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time. It gets even better when my younger siblings wake up and wander in to watch me play. There are quality, non- to light-violence video games out there. Pick up a good Mario or Sonic game. Check ESRB ratings. It really is possible to enjoy video games without guns, zombies, explosions, gore, gang-related activity, or even good-looking characters (I can't see Mario winning a modeling contest any time soon, can you?).