Играть ли в компьютерные игры?

Good morning, dear friends!

My name is Roman Komarov. I am from Komsomolsky school.

I ask you to answer one question: what is the most popular hobby  of a teenager nowadays?

1. Reading
2. Knitting
3. Computer ( video)games

May be reading? Oh, no! Computer games, of course.

There are some opposite opinions.

Computer games is the main evil of our time. VS

Computer games is a very cool thing.

Warface, World of Tanks, Minecraft, Terraria,JRPG are few computer games that are in demand not only among the youth today but also to some adults. Computer games conquer our minds. They surely bring us entertainment and fun.

I am really fond of computer games, but I don’t want to do something  wrong.  Let’s try to understand the point together.

First some pros of playing computer games.

Through these games, we are able to make friends all over the world. Such games as Warface and World of Tanks need cooperation and you may play with some guys from other countries.

These games could also help our minds because while playing we think of different strategies to win. Many popular games require abstract and high level thinking skills in order to win. For example, children need to follow instructions, solve complex problems and use logic in many of the games .For example, such games as WarCraft and StarCraft.

Moreover, games help to keep our minds off  the things we don’t want to think about. It helps us to relax. When we are very bored tired or stressed, computer games are  a good source of enjoyment. Moreover, they can release the pressure from daily study.And the other point of view.

The computer games contain violence. For instance, many games involve children helping their character to kill, kick, stab and shoot and they are rewarded for being aggressive. This may lead to increased aggressive feelings, thoughts, and behaviour.  As an example of cruel games we can take such games as: Manhunt, Deadspace, Soldier of Fortune.

Video gaming may become a risk factor for obesity. A gamer sits a lot and prefers snacks to healthy food.

Too much video game playing makes you socially isolated. 

Also, you  may spend less time in other activities such as doing homework, reading, sports, and interacting with the family and friends.  

Playing too many games you can confuse reality and fantasy.

It is a well-known fact that many gamers (especially fans of online games) suffer from addiction, which is no less serious than narcomania or alcoholism. For instance, in August 2005, a 28-year-old southern Korean gamer died playing a real-time strategy game for 50 hours.

So, to play or not to play?

To speak frankly, I don’t want to give up games at all.

We’ll try to make some simple rules how to play and to stay safe.

All games are rated. Play games of “G” category.  It means: for general audience.

The time should be regulated. One hour a day for gaming is enough. You should hold two “game- free days” a week.

You should wear computer glasses to save your eye- sight.

Balance your day. You should spend some time out- doors, meet your friends not only on- line, do your homework regularly, help your parents about the house. Business before pleasure.

Let’s take one day from my life.

You can see my usual routine. I have free time only at 14 o’clock and at eight pm but this time is not only for computer games. I am fond of reading. I enjoy reading classical literature.

I am in our school theatre club. As a rule, we prepare different school performances.

I go in for sports. I like playing basketball. We often go to different competitions.

In the evening I have to do some house work. My mother works in Samara and I am responsible for a lot of household chores.

So, if you ask again: to play or not to play, let’s answer: to play but to play wisely. We are not the slaves. We are free and prefer to lead bright and rich life.  Let’s make the right choice.

Thank you for your understanding  attention.