Massively Becoming a Part of Youth Culture
8/23/2007
There’s no denying that video games are a booming business. Gaming professionals continue to vie for the attention of gamers both male and female, young and old. Much of the buzz in video games today exists in the online world. The saturation of computers and Internet access into homes across the country and around the world has ushered in a new era for video games.
In the past, video game play at home has been limited to consoles (Xbox, PS2, GameCube, etc.) and single-player computer games. Online games designed for personal computers, however, could be played by anyone who owned a computer and had Internet access. Casual online games have been played for several years (think Tetris, Hearts, Checkers, etc.). Now a new form of online gaming is gaining popularity and your teens probably already know about it, so it’s time you do, too.
Let’s travel together and take a look at the popular world of M.M.O.R.P.G.s. Can’t pronounce that? That’s all right. MMORPG stands for “Massively Multiplayer Online Role Playing Game.” It may seem like a lot to digest, and actually it is, but I’ll walk you through some of the basics so you have a clearer understanding of what they are, how they are impacting the world of today’s teens and what to do if your teen plays, or wants to play MMORPGs.
What are they?
Let’s break this down into two sections:
First, “Massively Multiplayer Online.” The key here is that these games are played on a computer, over the Internet and within a very large online community. Some games have sold millions of copies, and these owners are free to log on and play any time they want. This means that tens or even hundreds of thousands of people are sharing this experience at the same time. Game developers create an online “world” in which gamers can interact with their characters.
Second, “Role Playing Game.” Each player creates his/her own character and, as such, has a role to fill. Depending on the game, characters can be human or non-human (i.e., trolls, elves, animals or sci-fi creatures). The role a character plays depends almost entirely on the person playing the game. Characters have choices, decisions, consequences, companions, tasks, and, to some extent, even emotions; all things that go along with playing a role in this large online community.
Hundreds of MMORPGs exists, and none are exactly the same. It can take weeks and months to get the hang of just one of them. For this reason, I’ll simply explain the things that most of them have in common.
Though a small handful of MMORPGs can be played for free and several more offer free trials, most MMORPGs are offered through a subscription service. A game must be purchased, either online or at a retail store, and then users pay a monthly or yearly fee to gain access to the online playing world of their particular game.
Once an account has been established, gamers must create their character. Choosing a character is a very important aspect in MMORPGs as they largely determine what type of role you will be filling. Some characters are inherently good or noble, while others are often bad or evil. Just as in real-life, different races exist. World of Warcraft (WoW) is the most popular MMORPG to date, with over 6 million active subscriptions. Examples of different races within WoW include human, gnome, troll, undead, dwarf and orc. Different races inherently have certain skills and qualities that allow them to perform particular tasks better than others. These skills can be enhanced and improved throughout the game. Within each race, classes also exist. Warriors, hunters, tradesman, crafters, merchants, wise men, priests and wizards are all examples of classes you might find.
Created characters then enter the online world of the game. Many worlds have fictional aspects to them, but the worlds in which game play takes place resemble a globe or map. Different lands, countries, cities, bodies of water and terrains exist. Certain races and classes often live in specific regions. Cities, much as in real life, are where the most diversity can be found.
Most MMORPGs have a “beginner’s land,” perhaps an island or an isolated city. There, before a beginner ventures into the oft-dangerous surrounding lands, a gamer can begin to hone his/her skills and learn important components of game play. MMORPGs are so in-depth, that this truly is an important aspect of games for beginners. It took me several hours to get the hang of them. Skills learned in this tutorial land range from things as simple as what keyboard buttons to use to maneuver/walk throughout the land, to more complex tasks such as learning combat techniques or how to interact with other players, whether through written text, by working as a team, or buying/selling/trading items. These lands also familiarize players with how to perform quests, one of the main goals within MMORPGs.
You’re probably beginning to see how complex these games are, but you also may be wondering what the point is in playing an MMORPG. There is, in most cases, no ultimate goal; there is no “saving the princess.” However, common thematic goals are a part of the gaming experience. One of these themes is combat. For players not interested in fighting, non-combat zones usually exist. Two or more characters can engage in battle in Player vs. Player (PvsP) mode. Large wars can break out among different races, classes, sanctions or cities. The obvious goal is to defeat the enemy, conquer their land, and pillage their belongings. Combat also takes place against computer-generated characters. This commonly occurs in quest mode where characters are given a specific task they must accomplish in order to obtain some sort of prize. Prizes consist of weapons, potions, strength, knowledge, etc. that enhance a character’s abilities. Many quests are adventurous and non-violent, however sometimes other players or computer-generated enemies must be defeated along the way.
Having no ultimate ending, or goal, the main idea is to stay alive, complete quests, conquer new lands, and gain experience and items for your character. Official game Web sites often post leader boards, where players are ranked according to different criteria. Of course, with the element of combat comes the possibility of death. Each game handles death differently. For some it means having to start all over again, for others it means coming back to life having lost certain possessions or skill levels.
That’s a broad overview of MMORPGs. For your benefit, you can take a look at the accompanying list at the bottom of the page for a list of popular MMORPGs. Visit their Web sites to get specific information about each game.
How are they affecting the world of teens?
As with many console games, online video games can have content that warrants concern for parents. Different levels of violence exist, especially in PvsP mode, where battles take place. Depending on the graphics of the particular game, depictions of violence and death can be anything from rather mundane to horrifically bloody.
Sadly, for some kids, the thrill of MMORPGs is in killing others. There are perhaps justified “killings,” if you will, within these games; defeating the bad guys, defending a hometown, self-defense, etc. But on the other hand, there are players out to simply wreak havoc on unsuspecting players. This not only seems like an unhealthy way to play a game, but can be discouraging to other players. Every parent views the violence in video games debate on a different scale. There is no doubt, however, that committing and viewing such acts regularly will impact teens in some manner—often in unhealthy ways.
Because gamers determine the actions of their own characters, good, right and honorable deeds can be done, as well as bad, evil and unjust actions. Players can choose “sides” between good and evil sects. Never before have personal ethics played such a large role in video games. It is important to consider why some teens might be drawn to darker characters. Younger teens may not be able to distinguish between actions in the game, and actions in real life. It is possible that MMORPGs will play a role in character development for today’s younger generation.
Sages, wizards, mystics and other spell-casting characters can be found within MMORPGs. Spells can be cast to do good or do harm. Teens interested in new age spirituality or Wicca may be drawn to these characters. Such elements within a video game are not inherently bad, but it is important that teens understand them in their correct context within a fictional game.
Because they’re played online, MMORPGs are open to the many pitfalls that come along with the Internet. Online gaming worlds are a place where anyone from anywhere can log in and join the action. Teens are open to influence from people of all ages and backgrounds. Communication with other players is a fundamental part of MMORPGs. Chat room or instant messaging-type functions allow players to send messages to one another. For this reason, the same concerns that exist for other forms of online communication exist within MMORPGs. Remind your kids not to give out personal information over the Internet. Some games have the option to turn private messages off for safety reasons. Sadly, online predators exist within the gaming community as well. Foul language and inappropriate conversations and adult topics can also be innocently witnessed as the number of adults playing often outweighs the number of teens.
Creating a female character will often result in being hit on and generating unwanted attention. However, some females may enjoy the attention. Choosing outfits, body type, hair color, etc., are normal parts of creating a character. Some games have pretty risqué choices. Sexual content is a concern as well. On June 8, 2006, game professionals gathered in California for an inaugural gaming summit titled the “Sex in Video Games Conference.” Their purpose was to discuss ways to include more sexuality within video games. MMORPGs are highly prone to such developments.
Teens are drawn to MMORPGs because of the shared experience. It allows them to be part of a community, to feel as though they are a part of something larger. When asked, “Why play [MMORPGs] instead of playing other games?” some 63 percent of respondents from MMORPG.com said because of “community.” Friends—both in the personal and online context—log in together and perform quests and conquer foes collectively. Teens desperately want to be a part of the group. Online gaming gives them opportunities to interact with people from outside their homes, schools or local communities.
Working together with others in the game can also be a positive way to learn about teambuilding and to understand how to use each players’ strengths for the good of the group. Problem-solving skills are also developed.
Advertisers are placing ads online and within video games more than ever before. As marketers learn better ways to integrate ads in video games without alienating gamers, product placement and other forms of advertisement will gradually increase.
“MMORPG addiction exists and is a real problem.” That is what 54 percent of registered gamers at MMORPG.com answered in an online survey. Perhaps because there is no end, no way to win or beat the game, players can easily become addicted as they move from one adventure to another. The more experience gained, the greater the opportunities. In another survey question, 31 percent of MMORPG players admitted to playing between four and eight hours per day!
MMORPGs are gaining popularity and are likely to stay for the long haul given enhanced computer technology and faster Internet connections. In a 750-page report titled “The Online Game Market,” DFC Intelligence “forecasts the worldwide online game market to grow from $3.4 billion in 2005 to more than $13 billion in 2011.”
In my research I found that RuneScape is perhaps the next big hit among today’s younger teens. It has actually existed for several years, however in the last few months it has become one of the top 10 most searched for items on the Internet, according to search engine reports. No other MMORPG can claim this. The below-average graphics, comparatively simple game play, and it’s free version make me believe this newfound popularity is largely among younger teens and other gamers new to MMORPGs.
What if your teen plays or wants to play them?
Many fun, exciting and appropriate online games exist. The first step is to find one that your son/daughter will enjoy and is appropriate for his or her age and maturity level. Remember, MMORPGs can be expensive because of subscription fees that run as much as $15/month. Make sure your teen understands what kind of cost is involved. Visit sites such as MMORPG.com to read reviews, get details and find news about games to get an idea of what types of games are available. Choose one that is both suitable for and appeals to your teen. MMORPGs are not for everyone. Downloading a free trial version is a good way to start for interested newcomers. Be aware however, many of these trials require you to provide credit card information.
Discuss expectations with your teen before they begin game play. Consider questions such as: Will you allow your son/daughter to be a character considered bad, or evil? Is PvsP mode acceptable? Are there situations where combat is unacceptable? Should you set limits to how your teen communicates with others in the game? What is expected of your teen if they encounter game situations that are inappropriate?
Spend time talking about some of the other possible things your teens will encounter. Warn them about online predators, the dangers of posting personal information and the language that may be used by other gamers. Perhaps the game you choose with your teen will include aspects of spell-casting. If necessary, take this opportunity to talk about false religions. Help them discern between the fictional gaming world and real life.
The actions your son/daughter chooses for their character will be completely up to them. Because it’s a video game, actions by game characters do not necessarily have to be godly, but have your teen consider whether their character’s actions are in line with the way God would want us to live. Hopefully practicing discernment in this matter will spill over to their everyday lives.
Enforce time limitations. Because MMORPGs are so addictive, time restrictions are necessary. Discourage problems before they begin. CPYU has suggested that computers be kept out of bedrooms and placed in a central location within the house with the monitor facing out. I highly recommend that MMORPGs be played on a computer that can easily be observed. This will discourage teens from doing things they’re not supposed to be doing as well as keep them accountable for the amount of time spent playing online games.
Finally, whether you enjoy video games or not, spend time playing (or at least watching) MMORPGs with your son or daughter. It may be difficult to play with them—you need two computers with separate accounts—but you can observe their game play while spending valuable time with them. Showing interest in their interests, without being overtly intrusive, is a great way to show them you care and open the lines of communication. Massively Multiplayer Online Role Playing Games can become an activity you enjoy together.
For now, you can sound cool by telling them you know what an MMORPG is, and they don’t even have to know that I told you.
Top 10 rated MMORPGs
(As voted on by registered users)
Source: www.mmorpg.com, July 10, 2006
In the past, video game play at home has been limited to consoles (Xbox, PS2, GameCube, etc.) and single-player computer games. Online games designed for personal computers, however, could be played by anyone who owned a computer and had Internet access. Casual online games have been played for several years (think Tetris, Hearts, Checkers, etc.). Now a new form of online gaming is gaining popularity and your teens probably already know about it, so it’s time you do, too.
Let’s travel together and take a look at the popular world of M.M.O.R.P.G.s. Can’t pronounce that? That’s all right. MMORPG stands for “Massively Multiplayer Online Role Playing Game.” It may seem like a lot to digest, and actually it is, but I’ll walk you through some of the basics so you have a clearer understanding of what they are, how they are impacting the world of today’s teens and what to do if your teen plays, or wants to play MMORPGs.
What are they?
Let’s break this down into two sections:
First, “Massively Multiplayer Online.” The key here is that these games are played on a computer, over the Internet and within a very large online community. Some games have sold millions of copies, and these owners are free to log on and play any time they want. This means that tens or even hundreds of thousands of people are sharing this experience at the same time. Game developers create an online “world” in which gamers can interact with their characters.
Second, “Role Playing Game.” Each player creates his/her own character and, as such, has a role to fill. Depending on the game, characters can be human or non-human (i.e., trolls, elves, animals or sci-fi creatures). The role a character plays depends almost entirely on the person playing the game. Characters have choices, decisions, consequences, companions, tasks, and, to some extent, even emotions; all things that go along with playing a role in this large online community.
Hundreds of MMORPGs exists, and none are exactly the same. It can take weeks and months to get the hang of just one of them. For this reason, I’ll simply explain the things that most of them have in common.
Though a small handful of MMORPGs can be played for free and several more offer free trials, most MMORPGs are offered through a subscription service. A game must be purchased, either online or at a retail store, and then users pay a monthly or yearly fee to gain access to the online playing world of their particular game.
Once an account has been established, gamers must create their character. Choosing a character is a very important aspect in MMORPGs as they largely determine what type of role you will be filling. Some characters are inherently good or noble, while others are often bad or evil. Just as in real-life, different races exist. World of Warcraft (WoW) is the most popular MMORPG to date, with over 6 million active subscriptions. Examples of different races within WoW include human, gnome, troll, undead, dwarf and orc. Different races inherently have certain skills and qualities that allow them to perform particular tasks better than others. These skills can be enhanced and improved throughout the game. Within each race, classes also exist. Warriors, hunters, tradesman, crafters, merchants, wise men, priests and wizards are all examples of classes you might find.
Created characters then enter the online world of the game. Many worlds have fictional aspects to them, but the worlds in which game play takes place resemble a globe or map. Different lands, countries, cities, bodies of water and terrains exist. Certain races and classes often live in specific regions. Cities, much as in real life, are where the most diversity can be found.
Most MMORPGs have a “beginner’s land,” perhaps an island or an isolated city. There, before a beginner ventures into the oft-dangerous surrounding lands, a gamer can begin to hone his/her skills and learn important components of game play. MMORPGs are so in-depth, that this truly is an important aspect of games for beginners. It took me several hours to get the hang of them. Skills learned in this tutorial land range from things as simple as what keyboard buttons to use to maneuver/walk throughout the land, to more complex tasks such as learning combat techniques or how to interact with other players, whether through written text, by working as a team, or buying/selling/trading items. These lands also familiarize players with how to perform quests, one of the main goals within MMORPGs.
You’re probably beginning to see how complex these games are, but you also may be wondering what the point is in playing an MMORPG. There is, in most cases, no ultimate goal; there is no “saving the princess.” However, common thematic goals are a part of the gaming experience. One of these themes is combat. For players not interested in fighting, non-combat zones usually exist. Two or more characters can engage in battle in Player vs. Player (PvsP) mode. Large wars can break out among different races, classes, sanctions or cities. The obvious goal is to defeat the enemy, conquer their land, and pillage their belongings. Combat also takes place against computer-generated characters. This commonly occurs in quest mode where characters are given a specific task they must accomplish in order to obtain some sort of prize. Prizes consist of weapons, potions, strength, knowledge, etc. that enhance a character’s abilities. Many quests are adventurous and non-violent, however sometimes other players or computer-generated enemies must be defeated along the way.
Having no ultimate ending, or goal, the main idea is to stay alive, complete quests, conquer new lands, and gain experience and items for your character. Official game Web sites often post leader boards, where players are ranked according to different criteria. Of course, with the element of combat comes the possibility of death. Each game handles death differently. For some it means having to start all over again, for others it means coming back to life having lost certain possessions or skill levels.
That’s a broad overview of MMORPGs. For your benefit, you can take a look at the accompanying list at the bottom of the page for a list of popular MMORPGs. Visit their Web sites to get specific information about each game.
How are they affecting the world of teens?
As with many console games, online video games can have content that warrants concern for parents. Different levels of violence exist, especially in PvsP mode, where battles take place. Depending on the graphics of the particular game, depictions of violence and death can be anything from rather mundane to horrifically bloody.
Sadly, for some kids, the thrill of MMORPGs is in killing others. There are perhaps justified “killings,” if you will, within these games; defeating the bad guys, defending a hometown, self-defense, etc. But on the other hand, there are players out to simply wreak havoc on unsuspecting players. This not only seems like an unhealthy way to play a game, but can be discouraging to other players. Every parent views the violence in video games debate on a different scale. There is no doubt, however, that committing and viewing such acts regularly will impact teens in some manner—often in unhealthy ways.
Because gamers determine the actions of their own characters, good, right and honorable deeds can be done, as well as bad, evil and unjust actions. Players can choose “sides” between good and evil sects. Never before have personal ethics played such a large role in video games. It is important to consider why some teens might be drawn to darker characters. Younger teens may not be able to distinguish between actions in the game, and actions in real life. It is possible that MMORPGs will play a role in character development for today’s younger generation.
Sages, wizards, mystics and other spell-casting characters can be found within MMORPGs. Spells can be cast to do good or do harm. Teens interested in new age spirituality or Wicca may be drawn to these characters. Such elements within a video game are not inherently bad, but it is important that teens understand them in their correct context within a fictional game.
Because they’re played online, MMORPGs are open to the many pitfalls that come along with the Internet. Online gaming worlds are a place where anyone from anywhere can log in and join the action. Teens are open to influence from people of all ages and backgrounds. Communication with other players is a fundamental part of MMORPGs. Chat room or instant messaging-type functions allow players to send messages to one another. For this reason, the same concerns that exist for other forms of online communication exist within MMORPGs. Remind your kids not to give out personal information over the Internet. Some games have the option to turn private messages off for safety reasons. Sadly, online predators exist within the gaming community as well. Foul language and inappropriate conversations and adult topics can also be innocently witnessed as the number of adults playing often outweighs the number of teens.
Creating a female character will often result in being hit on and generating unwanted attention. However, some females may enjoy the attention. Choosing outfits, body type, hair color, etc., are normal parts of creating a character. Some games have pretty risqué choices. Sexual content is a concern as well. On June 8, 2006, game professionals gathered in California for an inaugural gaming summit titled the “Sex in Video Games Conference.” Their purpose was to discuss ways to include more sexuality within video games. MMORPGs are highly prone to such developments.
Teens are drawn to MMORPGs because of the shared experience. It allows them to be part of a community, to feel as though they are a part of something larger. When asked, “Why play [MMORPGs] instead of playing other games?” some 63 percent of respondents from MMORPG.com said because of “community.” Friends—both in the personal and online context—log in together and perform quests and conquer foes collectively. Teens desperately want to be a part of the group. Online gaming gives them opportunities to interact with people from outside their homes, schools or local communities.
Working together with others in the game can also be a positive way to learn about teambuilding and to understand how to use each players’ strengths for the good of the group. Problem-solving skills are also developed.
Advertisers are placing ads online and within video games more than ever before. As marketers learn better ways to integrate ads in video games without alienating gamers, product placement and other forms of advertisement will gradually increase.
“MMORPG addiction exists and is a real problem.” That is what 54 percent of registered gamers at MMORPG.com answered in an online survey. Perhaps because there is no end, no way to win or beat the game, players can easily become addicted as they move from one adventure to another. The more experience gained, the greater the opportunities. In another survey question, 31 percent of MMORPG players admitted to playing between four and eight hours per day!
MMORPGs are gaining popularity and are likely to stay for the long haul given enhanced computer technology and faster Internet connections. In a 750-page report titled “The Online Game Market,” DFC Intelligence “forecasts the worldwide online game market to grow from $3.4 billion in 2005 to more than $13 billion in 2011.”
In my research I found that RuneScape is perhaps the next big hit among today’s younger teens. It has actually existed for several years, however in the last few months it has become one of the top 10 most searched for items on the Internet, according to search engine reports. No other MMORPG can claim this. The below-average graphics, comparatively simple game play, and it’s free version make me believe this newfound popularity is largely among younger teens and other gamers new to MMORPGs.
What if your teen plays or wants to play them?
Many fun, exciting and appropriate online games exist. The first step is to find one that your son/daughter will enjoy and is appropriate for his or her age and maturity level. Remember, MMORPGs can be expensive because of subscription fees that run as much as $15/month. Make sure your teen understands what kind of cost is involved. Visit sites such as MMORPG.com to read reviews, get details and find news about games to get an idea of what types of games are available. Choose one that is both suitable for and appeals to your teen. MMORPGs are not for everyone. Downloading a free trial version is a good way to start for interested newcomers. Be aware however, many of these trials require you to provide credit card information.
Discuss expectations with your teen before they begin game play. Consider questions such as: Will you allow your son/daughter to be a character considered bad, or evil? Is PvsP mode acceptable? Are there situations where combat is unacceptable? Should you set limits to how your teen communicates with others in the game? What is expected of your teen if they encounter game situations that are inappropriate?
Spend time talking about some of the other possible things your teens will encounter. Warn them about online predators, the dangers of posting personal information and the language that may be used by other gamers. Perhaps the game you choose with your teen will include aspects of spell-casting. If necessary, take this opportunity to talk about false religions. Help them discern between the fictional gaming world and real life.
The actions your son/daughter chooses for their character will be completely up to them. Because it’s a video game, actions by game characters do not necessarily have to be godly, but have your teen consider whether their character’s actions are in line with the way God would want us to live. Hopefully practicing discernment in this matter will spill over to their everyday lives.
Enforce time limitations. Because MMORPGs are so addictive, time restrictions are necessary. Discourage problems before they begin. CPYU has suggested that computers be kept out of bedrooms and placed in a central location within the house with the monitor facing out. I highly recommend that MMORPGs be played on a computer that can easily be observed. This will discourage teens from doing things they’re not supposed to be doing as well as keep them accountable for the amount of time spent playing online games.
Finally, whether you enjoy video games or not, spend time playing (or at least watching) MMORPGs with your son or daughter. It may be difficult to play with them—you need two computers with separate accounts—but you can observe their game play while spending valuable time with them. Showing interest in their interests, without being overtly intrusive, is a great way to show them you care and open the lines of communication. Massively Multiplayer Online Role Playing Games can become an activity you enjoy together.
For now, you can sound cool by telling them you know what an MMORPG is, and they don’t even have to know that I told you.
Top 10 rated MMORPGs
(As voted on by registered users)
- EVE Online
- Guild Wars
- The Saga of Ryzom
- Dark Age of Camelot
- EverQuest II
- Final Fantasy XI
- City of Villains
- Guild Wars Factions
- City of Heroes
- World of Warcraft
Source: www.mmorpg.com, July 10, 2006
Youth Ministry “Don'ts”
Youth Ministry “Don'ts”
Youth Ministry “Don'ts”