Gaming: Is It Safe?
What are video games? Video games are computer games that are designed for use by the human eye and have no interaction with the player. A computer game or video game is generally an interactive computer program that includes user interaction or direct interaction with an external user interface or input apparatus, including a mouse, joystick, keyboard, or touch screen device. The term “video” can also apply to any computer application that uses images to create a display on a computer monitor.
Video games have become the most popular leisure activity in the Western world. More people play video games than watch television, and they are also growing in popularity with children. The rise in popularity of electronic games has also translated into growth in the technological base of personal computers and the development of specialized computer hardware. Computer games can be used to enhance the user’s experience of gaming, to create new gaming opportunities, or to provide entertainment for users who do not enjoy the competitive nature of video gaming.
Many computer games allow the user to interact with a virtual character through a series of commands and actions. In some instances, the character can make decisions based on certain parameters, while in other instances the character must make the decisions on their own. These choices may include whether to save the game, change various game settings, or even kill the character at certain points in the game. While these decisions may seem small, the impact on the player is substantial, given that many of these decisions are essential to the success of a mission or the completion of a game. This type of exposure to simulated human interaction is both exciting and potentially addictive, and leaves players with the need to continue playing.
One type of popular online multiplayer gaming involves a form of simulation known as Pong. Pong is a very simple game, in that it requires only two things for players to win: a high score, and a space on the screen. The rules of pong are not difficult, and a novice can learn to play within minutes. In fact, most people playing online will be able to master this game within a few hours, which is impressive given how short it is.
Because of the popularity of pong, and the number of consoles which support it, there are a wide variety of console manufactures attempting to capitalise on its widespread appeal. Sony is responsible for the PS3’s amazing graphics, as well as the headset which allows users to play the game using headphones. Microsoft is also working on a headset designed for their next-generation Xbox, and Microsoft is currently testing a console designed to run on the Pong game software. While all of these companies’ consoles will be able to play pong, only a few of them are focusing on making the game as smooth and fun to play as possible. Due to the complexity of the game, many developers have developed game applications which are specifically designed to help gamers. For example, game developers have created application which allow players to connect to the game’s servers, where they can get advice on playing strategies and tips for improving their scores.
Most online gaming platforms have safety settings which limit the number of times a player can interact with other players while in a game. Many high profile celebrities have been caught using online gaming platforms to try and lighten the seriousness of some arguments, by joking about certain topics. However, this type of socialising is usually short-lived, with either the person quitting the game or the argument getting worse due to the amount of communication which was used in the first place. With the growing number of games which have strong anti-social elements, it is clear that gaming must be taken more seriously, and with more careful consideration given to the time periods in which players can interact with other players.