The Isolation Station

Before the inventions of the worldwide web and Xbox there was the beautiful outdoors where families spent quality time together cooking out or playing with the dog. Nowadays children find themselves socializing with their friends through a microphone instead of at the park. "Online multiplayer games typically encourage interaction between players: some go even as far as demanding it. Collaboration with other players may be a prerequisite for making progress in a game, or a game may be based on competition between players." This futuristic style of social interaction just poses another medium for children to stay in their homes. Children are placing video games on the forefront of their lives and are somehow maintaing social normality without being deprived of the good 'ol outdoors. "In addition to using the modes of communication offered by games, members of multiplayer communities may keep in touch face to face, over the phone, via email, or in IRC, Siitonen explains." How will children cope with the "Real" aspect of life in their adulthood? Although children are still in their prime and having a blast, should they be sheltered and told that this is alright?

"How Does Online Gaming Affect Social Interactions." Science Daily. 20 Sept 2007. Web. 1 Mar 2011.

Smallman, Wayne. "But video games are good for kids, right?" 7 Oct 2008. Blah, Blah! Technology. Web. 1 Mar 2011