by Clarence Bell

Created on: March 05, 2009

Video games have been on the rise since their humble beginnings of Atari. Video games evolved into an entertainment source frowned upon by parents groundlessly. The fact that it is played on the television makes it a "threat" towards child advancement. This is simply not true. These games can provide benefits (in moderation).

REFLEXES

It has been proven that surgeons who play video games are less likely to be charged with malpractice then surgeons who don't play video games. Some games are "Button Mashers" that promote fast reflexes, other games require the players to keep a cool head and have a steady hand.

CONCENTRATION

You can't play a video game if you don't concentrate on it. Games need the players to focus on them to attain the goal, boosting concentration.

STRESS RELIEF

Stressful players may find it relaxing to lay down on the couch after a long day and play some Halo or Call of Duty. Killing a virtual opponent can really let out some stress. Some parents and anti-video game advocates may find this "barbaric" but so isn't punching a pillow, or squeezing the stuffing out of a stress ball? Or what about those times where you tack up the picture of someone you hate and throw darts at them?

COMMUNICATION SKILLS

Playing online means you have to play with other people. Some gamers are nice and helpful, others will act insulting and vulgar, even if you're better than them. Video game players need to learn to communicate, avoid fights, and work as a team.

TEAM WORK

Gaming now encompasses multiplayer. That means gamers need to get along to flank enemies, or plan their assault.

STRATEGY

Similar to teamwork, gamers need to work with tactics to win games. Other games like Civilization Revolution are born strategy games that are thought-provoking.

CONFIDENCE

Video games can help build confidence. Wouldn't it make you feel good to know that you are one of the world's best Halo players? Playing video games can be as much of a skill as playing guitar or soccer.

PASS TIME

While sick, waiting to go in for a haircut, or just waiting until dinner, video games an help pass the time. On numerous occasions you don't have the time to watch a TV show or start reading a chapter in a book, but you have enough time to play a game of Call of Duty. Video games are also fun to play at parties too.

I hope it has become obvious how video games can benefit our world, but remember, they're always good in moderation.

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