According to a 2008 consumer survey from Entertainment Software Association, 75% of video game players are over the age of 18, and the average game player is 35 years old. These statistics speak volumes, proving that many adults like video games just as much as children do.
Some video games remain simplistic, and many adults play these "casual" video games with their kids or grandkids to help promote education, relaxation, and family bonding, according to an August 2007 article in Marketing Charts online magazine. However, while these are honorable reasons for playing video games, they do not account for the most personal, emotional reason of all: Many adults simply enjoy video games.
On a basic level, age has nothing to do with whether or not someone enjoys games. It doesn't matter if you are eight or 80 - if you like strategy, logic, sports, etc. and enjoy using a computer, you will be attracted to certain video games.
== Video Game Technology ==
Today's video games are still games at their very core, yet an overwhelming majority of them have become very sophisticated, attracting the more experienced, complex mindset of the adult. In recent years, video game technology has been advancing by leaps and bounds, including concepts like cutting-edge design, advanced game play, and uncountable plot variations.
For instance, the Wii, Xbox 360, and PlayStation 3 all feature animation technology that allows the computer controlled characters to react unpredictably. In other words, when you approach the enemy in these games, do not expect him to simply stand there. This more life-like scenario is a vast change from only a few years ago.
== What do Adults Like in Video Games? ==
This growing realism and complexity attracts adults for various reasons. Video games provide time away from the rigors and responsibilities of adult life - a chance to relax or have fun in a fantasy world. Also, such a wide variety of games exist, that any adult is bound to find one that appeals to his/her specific personality, intellect, and game type preference. For most adults, it is a mixture of these that keeps them coming back, but there are other reasons, as well.
- Exercise the brain and body: Gaming provides opportunities to solve riddles, plan strategies, be creative, and in the case of the Wii system, get a little physical exercise.
- Enjoy the creativity of others: High-end animated graphics and game plot lines created by professionals heighten the experience for adults seeking original entertainment.
- Meet like-minded people: The social aspect of online, multi-player role-playing games (RPGs) is a big draw for those who enjoy a team-building atmosphere and/or chatting during game play.
- Direct your own entertainment: TV or movie fans simply watch a story, while video gamers control an interactive novel of sorts, and are thus helping to guide the story that unfolds.
== Video Game Addiction ==
Do not underestimate the power of video game addiction, which is just as dangerous as any other addiction. According to an article on WebMD, it is a psychological disorder in which, generally, the person needs more of the game over time and becomes irritable or depressed when not playing.
It is certainly not as serious as substance abuse, but the same danger exists: More gaming means less time for relationships, socialization, work, and other hobbies. Most adults know the signs of addiction and can readily stop if the game playing starts to control their lives.
However, you should still check for modified behaviors if you think your friend or family member is in over his/her head. If someone plays games for hours on end and disregards real-life communication, consider keeping a record of his/her game playing patterns and seek professional help if necessary.
Don't worry too much, though, for the WebMD article also states that the majority of video game addicts are young men with "poor self-esteem and social problems." As sad as that statement is, it bodes well for adults in their 30s and beyond, who have more chance of controlling a gaming obsession.
== Summary ==
Adults like video games for the fun, creativity, brain exercise, and temporary escape from real life. As long as we don't let games rule our schedules, we adults can enjoy these digital, alternate realities and still lead normal lives.