Video Game Blog #4

It seems that the most prevalent texts on World of Warcraft outside those that specifically discuss tips and skill sets are those that highlight World of Warcraft’s ability to form addictions, or merely causing a negative impact on daily life. Dr. Orzack, founder and coordinator of Computer Addiction Services, noted in an article, between 10% and 40% of all players become at least marginally addicted to the game, according to an interview with Jeremy Reimer, writer for ARS website. But what precisely does such an addiction entail? The ARS article emphasizes the fact that the addiction forms not so much as a result of those with addictive personalities or even those with weak constitutions or willpower. Rather, the article notes that games such as World of Warcraft begins play easily, slowly increasing the difficulty level and amount of involvement until eventually relationships begin to suffer as a result. It’s only when the game begins to have negative ramifications on a person’s personal life, outside of the game, that the game can begin to be deemed addictive. The backlash against such findings have been significant indeed; for example, efforts have increased dramatically to have Video Game and Internet Addiction added to the formal diagnosis in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders. And further, China has begun measures to delay the benefits of the game, i.e. earning new levels or rewards in order to deter eager players from becoming too entrenched in its easy reward system.

Such addictions range in severity however, a prime example of the more negative end of the spectrum concerns a couple, Joceyln and Peter. Jocelyn was ultimately forced to divorce her husband of 6 years, Peter, after his addiction to World of Warcraft caused him to neglect housework and even paying bills. As Yahoo Games noted, “Jocelyn doesn't hesitate to cite Warcraft as the main reason for her divorce and remains emotional about its impact on her marriage. ‘I'm real, and you're giving me up for a fantasy land. You're destroying your life, your six-year marriage, and you're giving it up for something that isn't even real.’ And while Joceyln’s predicament is certainly a more extreme example of World of Warcraft’s impact, it does correctly highlight how truly wide-ranging and influential this game can be.