MMORPG time..?

Question

I have a daugther who would rather play Guild Wars then go out with friends. I don't see the "bigger picture" maybe, but she has friends on there, IM's, webcams and audio chats with them. She spends about 5-10 hours a week doing this and has a website dedicated to the game. Is this wrong? should I do something about it? She had straight a's in school, is very helpful around the house, etc. should I be concerned?

Answer 1

Nothing really wrong with that, with Pc's being such a standard these days. As long as it's not affecting her school work and she's not speaking with the wrong people online, giving them information on herself, everything should be ok. Video games are really a good outlet for kids and despite what most people believe, they do get their minds going trying to solve puzzles and working together with others as a team.

I would encourage her to get out once in awhile, kids need fresh air and exercise, they need to interact socially outdoors so that they do not get to reliant on the safety net the computer provides. Use your best judgment and have her tell you about the game or her adventures, if you can understand it, you'll feel more relaxed and confident. Best luck.

Answer 2

I second what the other answerers said.

I am not a parent. But I'm of the first generation for whom video games were a part of growing up (born: 1967.) I found the games inspired me deeply as a *creator* as well as a player and socializer.

In my late teens, I started playing the first MMORPGS -- they were called MUDs and were all text-based. The great thing was that you could start your own MUD, or join others *creating* one. So I dug in and did my best to create a fun, immersive world. I taught myself to code, to deploy software, to do library research for what I was creating, and to build websites. It was a hobby, not just a game -- and I learned skills I use today in my business life.

So I was heartened to read that your daughter has created a website dedicated to the game -- it sounds like she's turned her interest in the game into new skills.

So my story might convince you it's a good thing, or might convince you you need to get her off of GW ASAP ! It's just my own viewpoint, of course.

In general, I think that games are one of the things that kids *should* do. There are so many things to learn from them. I think so long as it's balanced with other stuff you can learn from (like sports, job, volunteering, performing arts, church, etc.) it's good.

FYI, MUDs are still around, and a great way to learn to code -- if she's into it. Try http://www.mudconnector.com The MUD creators tend to be earnest and helpful, mainly interested in creating games, but of course you should check it out first.

Answer 3

Your daughter is fine.

you did fail to mention how old she is.... some online games do have mature players that do.... odd things online. (I have been playing Online games for close to 10 years now... and have only witnessed the odd things twice)

If she has friends online in the game she plays that is her social interaction. If she does chores around the house and still keeps her grades up, then she is able to handle her responsibilities at home and still enjoy some gaming time.

She is fine. Just make sure her grades don't drop.

If she is looking for any other online MMORPG games, here is one for free. Your more than welcome to check out the site yourself to make sure it's something you would okay for her.

http://www.game-master.net

Answer 4

yes and no

yes because just sit on her butt all day isn't good for her.so she should do at least 30 minutes of exercise a day.

no,because she could be doing bad things out there instead of playing the game,plus you say she help around the house,gets good grades.so no you shouldn't be concerned.

Answer 5

no way just leave her