Navigating the Debate: Exploring the Pros and Cons of Allowing Children to Play Video Games

Video games have been a part of popular culture for decades, and their influence on children and teenagers is undeniable. As a parent, you may be faced with the question of whether or not to allow your kids to play video games. The debate around this topic is a complex one, with arguments both for and against allowing children to play video games. In this article, we will explore the pros and cons of this debate, and help you navigate the decision-making process. Whether you’re a parent or simply interested in the topic, this article will provide you with a comprehensive understanding of the benefits and drawbacks of video games for children.

The Growing Influence of Video Games on Children

The Popularity of Video Games Among Kids

In recent years, video games have become increasingly popular among children, with millions of players worldwide. This trend has led to a significant rise in the number of children who are spending more time playing video games, which has raised concerns among parents, educators, and experts. According to a study conducted by the Entertainment Software Association, the average age of a gamer in the United States is 35 years old, but a significant number of gamers are under the age of 18. The same study found that the majority of parents believe that video games are a positive influence on their children’s lives, but many also believe that video games can be addictive and have a negative impact on children’s health and well-being. The popularity of video games among kids is due to several factors, including the wide range of genres available, the ability to play with friends and family, and the opportunity to learn new skills and improve hand-eye coordination. However, the excessive playing of video games can lead to negative effects on children’s physical and mental health, including obesity, poor sleep habits, and social isolation. Therefore, it is important for parents and caregivers to carefully consider the pros and cons of allowing children to play video games and to set appropriate limits and guidelines for their children’s gaming habits.

The Impact of Video Games on Child Development

As video games continue to permeate every aspect of modern society, it is increasingly difficult to ignore their influence on children. The debate over whether or not video games are detrimental to child development is ongoing, with many studies and researchers offering conflicting opinions on the matter. However, there are some potential benefits and drawbacks to consider when examining the impact of video games on child development.

Benefits of Video Games on Child Development

• Cognitive Development: Many video games require players to solve problems, think critically, and make decisions quickly. These activities can help improve a child’s cognitive abilities, including their ability to process information, remember details, and think logically.
• Hand-Eye Coordination: Video games can improve hand-eye coordination, which is essential for many activities, including sports and fine arts.
• Social Interaction: Some video games, particularly those that include online multiplayer modes, can encourage social interaction and communication skills. Players must work together to achieve goals and communicate effectively to be successful.

Drawbacks of Video Games on Child Development

• Addiction: Video games can be highly addictive, and children may become so engrossed in them that they neglect other important aspects of their lives, such as schoolwork or social relationships.
• Aggression: Some studies have suggested that exposure to violent video games can increase aggressive behavior in children, leading to increased conflict with peers and a greater likelihood of engaging in physical fights.
• Physical Inactivity: Children who spend long hours playing video games may be more likely to be sedentary and less physically active, which can contribute to obesity and other health problems.

In conclusion, while video games may offer some potential benefits for child development, it is important to weigh these against the potential drawbacks. Parents and caregivers should monitor the amount of time children spend playing video games and encourage them to engage in a variety of activities to ensure a well-rounded development.

The Pros of Allowing Children to Play Video Games

Enhancing Cognitive Skills

While the debate over video games and their impact on children continues, research has shown that there are potential benefits to allowing children to play these games. One such benefit is the potential for enhanced cognitive skills.

• Improved Hand-Eye Coordination: Video games often require players to coordinate their hands and eyes, which can improve hand-eye coordination over time. This can lead to better performance in sports and other physical activities, as well as improved fine motor skills.
• Increased Problem-Solving Abilities: Many video games require players to solve puzzles and overcome obstacles, which can improve problem-solving abilities. These skills can be transferred to real-life situations, helping children develop critical thinking and analytical skills.
• Developing Spatial Awareness: Some video games require players to navigate virtual environments, which can help improve spatial awareness. This can be particularly beneficial for children who may struggle with directional skills or spatial reasoning.
• Boosting Memory Function: Many video games require players to remember and recall information, such as game strategies or patterns. This can help improve memory function over time, potentially leading to better academic performance.
• Encouraging Creativity: Some video games allow players to create and customize their own characters or virtual worlds, which can encourage creativity and imagination. This can be particularly beneficial for children who may struggle with expressing themselves in other ways.

While it is important to note that video games should not be the sole source of cognitive development, they can be a useful tool for enhancing certain skills. However, it is also important for parents to monitor their children’s gaming habits and ensure that they are not spending excessive amounts of time playing games.

Fostering Social Interactions

While video games have often been criticized for their potential negative effects on children, they can also play a significant role in fostering social interactions. This section will explore the ways in which video games can promote socialization among children.

• Building Communication Skills: Video games often require players to communicate with one another in order to achieve their goals. This can help children develop communication skills, such as sharing ideas, expressing opinions, and negotiating with others. Playing video games can also help children learn how to listen to and understand others, as well as how to respond appropriately to different situations.
• Encouraging Cooperation: Many video games require players to work together in order to succeed. This can help children learn the value of cooperation and teamwork, as well as how to rely on others to achieve a common goal. Playing video games can also help children develop problem-solving skills, as they must often work together to overcome challenges and obstacles.
• Expanding Social Circles: Video games can provide children with the opportunity to meet and interact with others who share similar interests. This can help children expand their social circles and make new friends, particularly for those who may have difficulty connecting with others in traditional settings. Additionally, online gaming communities can provide a safe and controlled environment for children to practice social interactions and build relationships.
• Developing Emotional Intelligence: Video games can also help children develop their emotional intelligence by providing opportunities to practice empathy, self-awareness, and self-regulation. For example, many video games require players to take on the perspective of other characters or to navigate complex social situations. This can help children learn how to understand and manage their own emotions, as well as how to respond appropriately to the emotions of others.

Overall, video games can play a positive role in fostering social interactions among children. By providing opportunities for communication, cooperation, and socialization, video games can help children develop important social skills and build meaningful relationships with others.

Encouraging Creativity and Innovation

One of the main arguments in favor of allowing children to play video games is that it can foster creativity and innovation. Video games often require players to think critically and solve problems, which can help develop creative thinking skills. Here are some ways in which video games can encourage creativity and innovation in children:

• Exploration and discovery: Many video games provide an open world for players to explore, allowing them to discover new things and come up with creative solutions to challenges. This type of exploration can help children develop a sense of curiosity and encourage them to think outside the box.
• Design and creation: Some video games allow players to create their own characters, buildings, and other elements, which can help develop creative thinking skills. Children can experiment with different designs and learn how to make changes to improve their creations.
• Problem-solving: Video games often require players to solve puzzles and overcome obstacles, which can help develop problem-solving skills. Children can learn to think creatively about how to approach challenges and come up with innovative solutions.
• Collaboration and communication: Many video games require players to work together to complete tasks, which can help develop communication and collaboration skills. Children can learn to share ideas and work together to come up with creative solutions.

Overall, playing video games can help children develop creative thinking skills that can be applied in many areas of life. By encouraging exploration, design, problem-solving, and collaboration, video games can help children become more innovative and creative thinkers.

The Cons of Allowing Children to Play Video Games

Addiction and Dependence

One of the most widely debated topics regarding children and video games is the potential for addiction and dependence. It is a common concern among parents and researchers that children who play video games excessively may develop an unhealthy relationship with the activity, leading to addiction.

Addiction, in this context, refers to a compulsive need to play video games, despite negative consequences to one’s physical, emotional, or social well-being. This addiction can manifest in different ways, such as preoccupation with the game, neglecting other activities, and a decline in personal hygiene and social interactions.

Several factors contribute to the development of addiction in children who play video games. These include the game’s design, the child’s personality, and the parent’s supervision. For instance, games with high levels of excitement, rewards, and challenges are more likely to lead to addiction. Children who are more impulsive or have a history of substance abuse may also be at a higher risk.

Research has shown that excessive gaming can lead to various negative outcomes in children, including sleep deprivation, obesity, and social isolation. It can also impact their academic performance, as the time spent on gaming often replaces time that could be devoted to studying.

Moreover, the risk of addiction is higher in children who play M-rated games, which are designed for mature audiences and often contain violent or sexual content. Exposure to such content can desensitize children to violence and sex, leading to problematic behaviors.

In conclusion, the potential for addiction and dependence is a significant concern for children who play video games. Parents and caregivers must be vigilant in monitoring the amount of time and content their children are exposed to, ensuring that gaming remains a healthy and enjoyable activity rather than a harmful addiction.

Negative Effects on Physical Health

Video games have been criticized for their potential negative effects on children’s physical health. Some of the concerns include:

• Increased sedentary behavior: Video games often require children to sit for extended periods, which can contribute to a sedentary lifestyle. This lack of physical activity can lead to weight gain, poor posture, and a higher risk of developing chronic health conditions such as obesity, type 2 diabetes, and cardiovascular disease.
• Reduced sleep quality: Exposure to screens, including those used for gaming, can disrupt sleep patterns. The blue light emitted by electronic devices can suppress melatonin production, a hormone that regulates sleep. This can result in difficulty falling asleep, shorter sleep duration, and poorer sleep quality.
• Eye strain and vision problems: Prolonged use of screens can cause eye strain, dry eyes, and blurred vision. This is particularly concerning for children, as their eyes are still developing, and excessive screen time may contribute to the development of nearsightedness or other vision problems.
• Decreased physical coordination: Repetitive use of controllers or buttons in video games can lead to hand cramps and other musculoskeletal issues. Additionally, a decrease in physical activity may contribute to decreased overall body coordination and motor skills.
• Less time for physical activities: Children who spend excessive time playing video games may have less time for other physical activities, such as outdoor play, sports, or exercise. This can further contribute to a sedentary lifestyle and the associated health risks.

It is important for parents and caregivers to be aware of these potential negative effects on physical health and to establish healthy limits on screen time, including video game use, for children. Encouraging regular physical activity, promoting healthy sleep habits, and ensuring proper eye care can help mitigate some of these concerns.

Exposure to Violence and Inappropriate Content

Video games are often criticized for their potential to expose children to violent and inappropriate content. The concern is that these games can desensitize children to violence, leading to aggressive behavior and a lack of empathy. Research has shown that exposure to violent video games can increase aggressive thoughts, hostile feelings, and physically aggressive behavior in children.

One study found that children who played violent video games were more likely to engage in physical fights and to be diagnosed with conduct disorder, a psychiatric disorder characterized by aggressive behavior and disobedience. Another study found that playing violent video games was associated with a increase in heart rate and a decrease in physiological arousal during a subsequent real-life physical fight.

Additionally, some video games contain sexual content, substance abuse, and other inappropriate themes that can be harmful to children. This exposure can lead to confusion about values and beliefs, as well as a lack of understanding about appropriate behavior.

However, it’s important to note that not all studies have found a direct link between violent video games and aggressive behavior. Some researchers argue that other factors, such as a child’s personality and home environment, may play a larger role in determining their behavior.

In conclusion, while the potential for exposure to violence and inappropriate content is a valid concern, it’s important for parents to carefully monitor their children’s gaming habits and to have open and honest conversations about the content they are exposed to.

Balancing the Benefits and Drawbacks

Setting Limits and Guidelines

One of the key strategies for navigating the debate surrounding video games and children is to establish clear limits and guidelines for gameplay. By setting limits and guidelines, parents and caregivers can help ensure that children are able to reap the potential benefits of video games while minimizing the potential risks.

Factors to Consider When Setting Limits and Guidelines

• Child’s Age: The age of the child is an important factor to consider when setting limits and guidelines for video game play. For example, younger children may need more stringent limits on the amount of time they spend playing video games, while older children may be able to handle longer sessions.
• Content of the Game: The content of the game is another important consideration. Some games may be more appropriate for older children, while others may be more suitable for younger audiences. Parents should carefully review the game’s rating and content before allowing their child to play.
• Child’s Interests and Needs: It is also important to consider the child’s interests and needs when setting limits and guidelines. For example, if a child is interested in learning about a particular subject, a game that focuses on that subject may be a good choice.

Tips for Setting Limits and Guidelines

• Establish Clear Rules: It is important to establish clear rules for video game play, including the amount of time that can be spent playing and the types of games that are allowed.
• Monitor Gameplay: Parents and caregivers should monitor their child’s gameplay to ensure that they are adhering to the established rules and guidelines.
• Encourage a Balanced Lifestyle: While video games can be a fun and educational activity, it is important to encourage a balanced lifestyle that includes a variety of activities beyond screen time.
• Involve Children in the Process: It can be helpful to involve children in the process of setting limits and guidelines, as this can help them develop a sense of responsibility and ownership over their gaming habits.

By setting clear limits and guidelines for video game play, parents and caregivers can help ensure that children are able to enjoy the potential benefits of gaming while minimizing the potential risks.

Encouraging Healthy Gaming Habits

While video games can provide children with a variety of benefits, it is essential to encourage healthy gaming habits to ensure that they reap the positive effects without experiencing any adverse consequences. Here are some tips for promoting healthy gaming habits among children:

1. Establish Guidelines for Gaming: Parents should establish clear guidelines for their children’s gaming habits, including the amount of time they can spend playing video games, the types of games they can play, and the appropriate age limits for different games. This helps ensure that children are engaging in age-appropriate content and not spending excessive amounts of time in front of screens.
2. Monitor Game Content: Parents should closely monitor the content of the games their children are playing, as some games may contain violence, mature themes, or other inappropriate material that could negatively impact their children’s development. By being aware of the content of the games, parents can make informed decisions about what games are suitable for their children.
3. Encourage Physical Activity: While video games can be an enjoyable pastime, it is essential to encourage children to engage in physical activity and maintain an active lifestyle. Parents can set limits on the amount of time their children spend playing video games and encourage them to participate in sports, outdoor activities, or other forms of exercise.
4. Foster Social Interaction: Video games can be a solitary activity, and it is essential to encourage children to engage in social interactions with their peers. Parents can encourage their children to play games with friends, participate in online gaming communities, or engage in other social activities that promote face-to-face interaction.
5. Balance Screen Time with Other Activities: While video games can be an enjoyable form of entertainment, it is essential to balance screen time with other activities that promote cognitive development, creativity, and social skills. Parents can encourage their children to engage in activities such as reading, drawing, playing with toys, or participating in hobbies that promote diverse interests and skill sets.

By following these tips, parents can encourage healthy gaming habits among their children, ensuring that they can enjoy the benefits of video games while avoiding potential risks and negative consequences.

Promoting a Balanced Lifestyle

It is important for parents to encourage their children to maintain a balanced lifestyle that includes a variety of activities beyond playing video games. This means setting limits on the amount of time spent playing games and encouraging children to engage in other activities such as physical exercise, reading, and socializing with friends and family.

One way to promote a balanced lifestyle is to establish a schedule or routine that includes specific times for playing video games, as well as times for other activities. This can help children learn to prioritize their time and make healthy choices about how to spend their free time.

Another way to promote a balanced lifestyle is to involve children in the decision-making process when it comes to choosing activities. This can help children feel more invested in the activities they participate in and may encourage them to try new things.

Additionally, parents can model a balanced lifestyle for their children by engaging in a variety of activities themselves and encouraging their children to join in. This can help children see the value in a diverse range of activities and may inspire them to adopt a similar approach to their own free time.

Ultimately, promoting a balanced lifestyle requires ongoing communication and collaboration between parents and children. By working together to set goals and make choices about how to spend time, parents can help their children develop healthy habits that will serve them well throughout their lives.

Making Informed Decisions

Understanding Your Child’s Interests and Needs

When it comes to making informed decisions about whether or not to allow children to play video games, it is essential to consider their individual interests and needs. Every child is unique, and what may be appropriate for one child may not be suitable for another. Here are some factors to consider when understanding your child’s interests and needs:

• Age: The age of your child is an essential factor to consider when deciding whether or not to allow them to play video games. For example, younger children may not have the cognitive abilities necessary to understand complex game mechanics, while older children may be more adept at handling more challenging games.
• Maturity Level: It is not just the age of your child that you should consider, but also their maturity level. Some children may be more mature than their age suggests, while others may be less mature. If your child is not mature enough to handle the content of a particular game, it may not be suitable for them.
• Interests: Understanding your child’s interests is crucial when deciding which video games to allow them to play. If your child is interested in a particular genre or franchise, it may be worth exploring games within that category. However, it is essential to ensure that the games they play align with their interests and are age-appropriate.
• Learning Styles: Every child has a different learning style, and some may find it easier to learn through video games than others. If your child is struggling with a particular subject, there may be educational games available that can help them learn in a more engaging way.
• Special Needs: If your child has special needs, it is essential to consider whether or not video games are appropriate for them. Some children with special needs may benefit from playing video games, while others may find them overwhelming. It is essential to consult with your child’s doctor or therapist to determine whether or not video games are suitable for your child’s needs.

By considering these factors, you can make informed decisions about whether or not to allow your child to play video games and ensure that the games they play are appropriate for their individual needs and interests.

Seeking Professional Advice

When it comes to making informed decisions about whether or not to allow children to play video games, seeking professional advice can be a valuable resource. There are a variety of professionals who can provide guidance on this topic, including pediatricians, psychologists, and child development specialists.

Pediatricians, for example, are medical doctors who specialize in the care of children. They can provide valuable insights into the potential physical effects of video game play on children, such as eye strain, obesity, and other health concerns. They can also provide guidance on appropriate screen time limits and recommend age-appropriate games for children.

Psychologists, on the other hand, can offer insight into the potential psychological effects of video game play on children. They can assess whether a child has any pre-existing mental health conditions that may be exacerbated by excessive gaming, and provide guidance on how to set boundaries and encourage healthy gaming habits.

Child development specialists, meanwhile, can provide a broader perspective on the potential impact of video games on a child’s overall development. They can help parents understand how video games can affect a child’s cognitive, social, and emotional development, and provide guidance on how to balance screen time with other activities that promote healthy development.

It’s important to note that while seeking professional advice can be a valuable resource, it’s ultimately up to parents to make the final decision about whether or not to allow their children to play video games. However, by consulting with professionals who have expertise in child development and health, parents can make more informed decisions that are based on the best available evidence.

Open Communication with Your Child

When it comes to making informed decisions about whether or not to allow your child to play video games, open communication with your child is key. It is important to talk to your child about their interests, hobbies, and the games they want to play. By listening to your child and understanding their perspective, you can make more informed decisions about what games are appropriate for them.

Additionally, by discussing the potential pros and cons of playing video games with your child, you can help them develop critical thinking skills and encourage them to make responsible choices. This can include setting limits on the amount of time spent playing, choosing age-appropriate games, and discussing the importance of balancing screen time with other activities.

It is also important to create a safe and open environment for your child to share their thoughts and feelings about playing video games. This can include asking questions about their experiences, listening to their concerns, and addressing any issues that may arise. By maintaining open communication with your child, you can help them navigate the debate surrounding video games and make informed decisions about their gaming habits.

Revisiting the Debate: A Parent’s Responsibility

As a parent, it is essential to understand the debate surrounding video games and their impact on children. The debate revolves around whether video games are harmful or beneficial to children. While some argue that video games are detrimental to children’s development, others argue that they can be educational and promote critical thinking skills. As a parent, it is crucial to revisit this debate and make informed decisions about whether to allow children to play video games.

One way to make informed decisions is to consider the American Psychological Association’s (APA) recommendations on the use of video games. The APA suggests that parents limit the amount of time their children spend playing video games and monitor the content of the games they play. Additionally, parents should encourage their children to engage in other activities, such as sports or reading, to ensure that they maintain a healthy balance of interests.

Another way to make informed decisions is to consider the scientific research on the effects of video games on children. Some studies suggest that video games can improve children’s cognitive abilities, such as spatial reasoning and working memory. Other studies, however, have found that excessive exposure to violent video games can lead to aggressive behavior in children. Therefore, it is essential to stay informed about the latest research and use it to guide decision-making.

Ultimately, the decision of whether to allow children to play video games is a personal one that should be based on individual circumstances. Parents should consider their children’s age, interests, and personality when making this decision. They should also consider the potential benefits and drawbacks of video games and how they might affect their children’s development. By taking a thoughtful and informed approach, parents can make the best decision for their children and help them navigate the debate surrounding video games.

Staying Up-to-Date with Research and Trends

It is essential for parents and guardians to stay informed about the latest research and trends related to video games and their impact on children. This includes keeping up with the latest scientific studies, industry developments, and expert opinions. By staying up-to-date, parents can make more informed decisions about whether or not to allow their children to play video games, and what steps to take to ensure their safety and well-being.

Some ways to stay informed include:

• Subscribing to relevant newsletters and magazines
• Following reputable sources on social media
• Participating in online forums and discussion groups
• Attending conferences and workshops
• Consulting with experts in the field

By staying informed, parents can make more informed decisions about whether or not to allow their children to play video games, and what steps to take to ensure their safety and well-being.

Empowering Parents to Make Educated Decisions

Video games have been a part of the modern lifestyle for several decades now, and the debate surrounding their impact on children has persisted. As a parent, it is essential to be well-informed about the potential pros and cons of allowing children to play video games. To empower parents to make educated decisions, it is crucial to consider the following factors:

Research-Based Evidence

One of the most critical steps in making informed decisions is to gather research-based evidence on the impact of video games on children. Several studies have been conducted on this topic, providing valuable insights into the positive and negative effects of video games on children’s development. By reviewing these studies, parents can make more informed decisions about the appropriate content and time limits for their children.

Age-Appropriate Content

When it comes to video games, it is essential to consider the age-appropriateness of the content. Parents should research the games their children want to play and ensure that they are suitable for their age group. Many games have rating systems that provide guidance on the age-appropriateness of the content, including violence, language, and sexual themes. By choosing age-appropriate games, parents can minimize the potential negative effects of video games on their children.

Time Limits and Moderation

While video games can provide several benefits to children, it is essential to establish time limits and encourage moderation. Parents should set reasonable limits on the amount of time their children spend playing video games and ensure that other activities, such as homework, extracurricular activities, and socializing, remain a priority. Moderation is key to ensuring that video games do not become a detriment to a child’s overall well-being.

Open Communication with Children

Open communication with children is essential when it comes to discussing the impact of video games on their lives. Parents should encourage their children to share their thoughts and feelings about the games they play and provide guidance and support when necessary. By fostering open communication, parents can better understand their children’s perspectives and make more informed decisions about their video game consumption.

Balancing Interests and Goals

As parents, it is essential to balance our children’s interests and goals when it comes to video games. While video games can provide numerous benefits, it is crucial to consider other areas of our children’s lives, such as academics, socialization, and physical activity. By balancing these interests and goals, parents can ensure that video games do not take precedence over other essential aspects of their children’s development.

In conclusion, empowering parents to make educated decisions about allowing children to play video games requires research-based evidence, age-appropriate content, time limits and moderation, open communication with children, and balancing interests and goals. By considering these factors, parents can make more informed decisions and ensure that video games have a positive impact on their children’s lives.

FAQs

1. What are the benefits of allowing children to play video games?

There are several potential benefits to allowing children to play video games. For one, video games can help improve hand-eye coordination and fine motor skills. They can also enhance problem-solving abilities and foster creativity. In addition, some video games can provide educational value, such as games that teach math or history. Finally, video games can be a fun and engaging way for children to socialize with others and build relationships.

2. What are the potential drawbacks of allowing children to play video games?

While there are potential benefits to allowing children to play video games, there are also several potential drawbacks. One concern is that video games can be addictive, leading to a decrease in physical activity and social interaction. In addition, some video games contain violent or mature content that may not be appropriate for children. Furthermore, excessive screen time has been linked to several negative health outcomes, such as obesity, sleep problems, and vision issues.

3. How much screen time is appropriate for children?

The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends that children under the age of 18 months should have no screen time, while children between the ages of 18 months and 5 years should have no more than 1 hour of high-quality educational programming per day. For children over the age of 6, the AAP recommends no more than 2 hours of screen time per day, with exceptions for homework and educational activities. It’s important to note that these recommendations are just guidelines, and parents should use their best judgment when it comes to determining how much screen time is appropriate for their individual children.

4. How can I ensure that my child is playing age-appropriate video games?

To ensure that your child is playing age-appropriate video games, it’s important to research the games before allowing your child to play them. Check the game’s rating, which is provided by the Entertainment Software Rating Board (ESRB), to determine the appropriate age range for the game. You can also read reviews and talk to other parents to get a sense of whether the game is appropriate for your child. Additionally, you can set limits on the amount of time your child spends playing video games and monitor their gaming habits to ensure that they are not playing inappropriate content.

5. How can I balance my child’s love for video games with other important activities, such as physical activity and socialization?

Balancing your child’s love for video games with other important activities can be challenging, but it’s important to find a balance that works for your family. One way to do this is to set aside specific times for gaming and other activities, such as sports or socializing with friends. You can also encourage your child to play video games with others in person, rather than just playing online, to ensure that they are getting some social interaction while playing. Finally, make sure that your child is getting enough physical activity and is staying engaged in other hobbies and interests outside of gaming.

Should We Let Kids Play Video Games?