Video Games

Okay, so I've been playing Assassin's Creed 2 like crazy lately.  I've actually owned it since the year it came out (got it for christmas) but the first ten mintues kind of turned me off, and I was a little iffy about playing it.

But after some encouragement I figured I'd try again, if it still made me uncomfortable, that would be that.

Well, it is definitely a FANTASTIC game!  If you haven't played it, start with the first one and keep playing, cause wow!  There are so many reasons I love this game I don't think I can name them all.  The game play, the art, the environments, the interactions with NPCs (non playable characters) and the little details like Ezio throwing his cape over his shoulder whenever he runs or fights INCREDIBLE! :D  Plus the story is even more gripping than the first one was.  And Ezio is now as dear to me as Altair is.  (He almost blew it by loosing that sword near the beginning).

The other day I snagged me some snazzy armour (got the sixth seal) and a beeeaauuuutiful sword (I may be slightly obsessed with anything that has Altair written on it), and I was extremely giddy.  (I mean giggling like a madman and clapping my hands, swinging my legs.  Super excited).  And then that also made me laugh.

But what really made me laugh was how there's aaaalways those arguments swimming around about how violent video games are causing more violence.

I'm sorry, but I really, really reaaally don't buy that at all.

I've been playing "violent" video games since I first started playing video games.  Goldeneye, perfect dark, assassin's creed, final fantasy, halo, diablo 2, starcraft, warcraft, etc, etc, etc.  I've had a ton of fun with them too.  I get excited with a new gun, I get excited learning a new assassination technique.

Why?

Because I know it's a game!!

Ironically my family kind of talked about it after summer.  And my brother said that it really isn't video games that are leading to violence, it's a lack of a proper upbringing and parenting.

See, I've never once considered taking up a weapon and re-enacting anything I've seen in a game because I know it's a game.  I know the difference between fantasy and reality, I know that in real life you don't get the chance to restart.  I also know full well my actions are permanent and effect other people.

I also get bothered by the argument because I love games, I'll defend them because they've helped me gain some fond memories.  I used to always sit and watch my brother play games (who needs a players guide when you see it in action!)  I'd play with friends, heck I've met great friends thanks to playing games!  And a lot of the time they just help me unwind and have fun.

So don't knock video games or blame them for increased aggression.  Blame those who are supposed to be responsible for helping the growing generation learn ethics and morals and the difference between fantasy and reality.

I mean, here I am a very avid gamer (for most of me life) and despite some horrible, horrible mood swings that come once a month, I've never once attacked anyone.  Because my parents were there to help me know what is right and what is wrong.