Understanding Violence in Videogames
In recent years, there has been much hype around the violent nature of some video games. While it is true that some games depict violent content, the best examples are non-violent games.
The Sims 2 one of the best-selling games of all time (Game Zone, 2002). This game is a simulation of life, where a player makes the decisions for the simulated people (Sims): where to live, what school they will go to, or if they will have children, etc.
At the same time, games have become the perfect scapegoat in the media because of the controversy they cause. For example, Grand Theft Auto IV, where the player is in the role of a thug and enacts that stereotypical lifestyle, has caused an uproar among some circles (Associated Press, 2005). Yet, even for all this controversy, very little evidence exists that games directly contribute to violent behavior (Sliwinski, 2007).
Different Perspectives on Violence
In the article "Professor Jenkins Goes to Washington," we can see a number of different perspectives on the "violence in games" debate. On one hand, politicians blame games for the carnage at Columbine. On the other hand, Henry Jenkins, a respected expert in media and a long time scholar on games, defends games value as a medium for expression.
From free speech advocates to religious fundamentalists, videogames are a medium that encourages discussion and passionate views. However, as Jenkins argues, one of the voices that are seldom heard out in the hype is that of those directly involved with them: the gamers.