# Video Games: The New Reality That Could Consume Your Life
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The Evolution of Leisure Activities
How do you unwind? For many years, immersing myself in video games was my go-to escape. It provided a way to exert minimal mental effort while temporarily distancing myself from reality. However, looking back, I realize I squandered precious time that could have been spent on more educational or meaningful pursuits—or simply enjoying the world outside.
That said, it's important to acknowledge the value of mindless relaxation. Everyone needs a break sometimes. Yet, when these activities start to dominate several hours of your day, they transition from harmless pastimes to potentially harmful obsessions.
With the rise of advanced AI technologies like ChatGPT, we are increasingly vulnerable to enticing dopamine hits. These experiences could make my previous gaming habits appear trivial in comparison. Life has become increasingly gamified; the same tactics that kept me glued to my screen are now integrated into our daily technologies. If we’re not cautious, they could take over our lives.
The Transformation of Gaming
As a millennial from the late 1980s, I grew up in a time when video games weren’t yet connected to the internet (can you believe it?). The only way to interact with friends through gaming was at LAN parties or in-person multiplayer sessions. Today, anyone with a gaming console and internet access can connect with others globally, often without any genuine social interaction.
The addictive elements that characterized games from the 1990s and 2000s—accumulating tokens, achievements, and hidden secrets—are still prevalent today. There was a unique satisfaction in amassing these virtual accolades, like besting friends in a multiplayer match of GoldenEye.
Modern video games are now far more intricate, featuring immersive worlds and online economies. Yet, the same retention strategies remain. The gameplay is designed to be challenging but not overwhelmingly so, pushing players to progress. The allure of rewards—whether it’s defeating a formidable boss or unlocking achievements—keeps players engaged.
This scenario may sound familiar, especially if you think about your favorite social media platforms or fitness apps. Our entire world has morphed into a massive video game, and this trend is only just beginning.
The Gamification of Daily Life
My Fitbit recently rewarded me with a badge for walking 25,000 steps in one day. Similarly, the Robinhood app used to celebrate my trades with digital confetti (until regulators intervened). Notifications from various social media platforms constantly remind me of my desire for likes and views.
Companies like Meta have discovered that increased notifications lead to greater user engagement. They even send alerts about events that may not directly concern the user—“Mary just posted a new photo!”
This growing gamification of our lives distracts us from genuine experiences. Instead of simply enjoying my favorite music, I catch myself wondering, “Should I listen on Spotify so the algorithm can better understand my preferences?”
Am I the only one who feels this way?
Every time I post on social media, I find it nearly impossible to resist the urge to check my notifications. I’m obsessed with monitoring my stats, waiting for the moment I go viral. It’s a never-ending cycle.
My Audible app has awarded me 10 badges for the audiobooks I've listened to. Achieving the “Daily Dipper” badge for listening for seven consecutive days feels oddly gratifying, similar to unlocking a new level in a video game.
Companies are well aware of this dynamic. They aim to gamify our experiences to keep us engaged, glued to our screens, and plugged into their services. More engagement equals more revenue.
Many of us engage with video games daily without even realizing it. Even basic investment apps—especially those not named Robinhood—are designed with user experiences reminiscent of gaming, albeit without the confetti. Watching numbers rise and fall is just as thrilling as it is nerve-wracking, as we strive to “buy the dip” and regain our footing in this game.
The Psychological Impact of Gamification
Have you ever observed a toddler using an iPad or iPhone? It's captivating. Many of them not only navigate the screen adeptly but also learn to demand it.
They begin to associate these devices with specific events—like flying on a plane or dining out—so much so that they can no longer enjoy those experiences without the instant gratification that screens provide. Good luck trying to take the device away from them!
Adults aren't much different. TikTok has demonstrated an unprecedented level of addiction in the social media landscape.
The recent fascination with ChatGPT hints at what lies ahead in the realm of artificial intelligence. Soon, AI will be integrated into every aspect of our lives, from customer support calls to completing tasks we rely on for our jobs.
Expect these AI applications to master the art of capturing our attention, just as social media has for over a decade. The difference is that AI will likely do it even better. For instance, AI will learn our preferences, making it more effective at drawing us back in.
Unfortunately, our brains are not equipped to counter these influences without deliberate self-control. As history has shown with social media, many will struggle to resist the compelling allure that AI is poised to offer.
The gamification of life is just beginning. If we don’t recognize the potential dangers alongside its benefits, it will inevitably take over our existence. If the past has taught us anything, it’s that we cannot depend on individuals to self-regulate.
In this video titled "10 Video Games That Will Consume Your Life," we explore the most addictive games that have captivated players for hours on end, showcasing their immersive worlds and compelling mechanics.
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