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April 16, 2010 By Kristin Zanon
At first glance, one might think students at Corban University are "above" all of today's modern trends. Students at this city on a hill are too busy reading their Bibles and memorizing Scripture to engage in any other activities, right? But every college student needs a little time to unwind.
And that's what video games provide – a time to unwind. Or is it more than that?
Video games provide guys on campus with common ground, a way to build camaraderie, and a way to just be boys.
"Video games are a way for guys to bond, especially when playing together," says freshman Rob Douglass. "I think the appeal of video games is that they are fun to play if you get the right game, and they provide an alternate reality where guys can escape to."
That alternate reality Douglass refers to is often the source of controversy about video games, as it can cause guys to ignore others while engaged in a battle, race, or whatever else they are attempting to pursue in the gaming world.
Senior Farrar RA Dan Morrow agrees the main appeals of video games are entertainment, stress relief or the need to escape. But he also says he has seen that escape turn into an addiction at times, even on campus.
"An addiction to video games is characterized by a need to play them," says Morrow. "My friends have sacrificed relationships, food, sleep, and so much more. Everyone develops coping mechanisms. Video games are just one of them."
Although video games can be potentially addictive, they don't have to be.
"In a way, while playing videos games you do ignore people around you and enter into an alternate universe," admits Douglass. "Some of my best bonding times have been while playing video games."
Douglass and Morrow agree the most popular video games on campus are Call of Duty and Halo.
Although video games are a way for guys to have fun together in the dorms, they aren't the only way.
"I don't play video games that often" says Morrow. "I don't have a problem with them. I would just rather do other things like hang out with people or watch movies."