Should There Be More Likely To Play Video Gamers?

Video games are a form of entertainment involving explorable and interactive digital worlds. They’ve developed and evolved to become almost like movies; with rich storylines and beautiful scenery. To reach this new level, video games have taken a lot of inspiration from the real world, from the inner workings of the human mind to religion. Folklore and religion has become an important aspect of games, and will continue taking on minor to major roles. However, certain depictions have been seen as disrespectful, and game developers should seek to correct their portrayals of Gods and other figures. Gods and religion have been depicted appropriately and respectfully in many successful game releases. Despite some public objections, religion should

“Young adults are particularly likely to play video games, as well as to identify as ‘gamers.’ Two-thirds (67%) of those ages 18 to 29 say they play video games, while 22% say the term ‘gamer’ describes them well” (Duggan, pg. 1). Going through school and a variety of life’s other responsibilities, gaming offers itself not only as an escape but also as a learning tool. Researchers, scholars, and game designers are already working together to use video games in the classroom (Sohn, pg. 1). Students are more eager to learn through mediums that they like. Religion, too, can be explored. The stories of religion are epic, and make for exciting adventures. They are practically written as game plots! There is a lot of public outcry for these religious games. Religious movies don’t get nearly as much backlash as

Some have even been removed from the market entirely, such as the 1984 title “Devil World,” which became known as the only game designed by Shigeru Miyamoto that has not been released in North America. The only reason for its banning was its use of Christian motifs in the game, such as crosses and holy water. Some games nail the good religious messages, but this is overshadowed by game developers sexualized, violent, and sexist depictions (Ettleman, pg. 1). In addition to these themes, “Many video games that now deal with religion in some form illuminate a corrupt, somewhat oppressive side…” (Ettleman, pg. 1). Including words from the Quran in a song from the new LittleBigPlanet soundtrack got the game's release delayed. “Muslims consider the mixing of music and words from our Holy Quran deeply offending…” (Thompson, pg. 2). While this situation was resolved quickly by Sony apologizing, and removing the track, this action was criticized by other followers of the religion. The American Islamic Forum for Democracy even said: “‘Muslims cannot benefit from freedom of expression and religion and then turn around and ask that anytime their sensibilities are offended that the freedom of others be restricted…free market allows for expression of disfavor by simply not purchasing a game that may be offensive’” (Thompson, pg. 2).

These arguments are understandable, because in some cases