How video games has changed America

[PHOENIXRIDER57]

For finals in my U.S. History class, I have to write a report about something or someone that has had a profound effect on America. (ie politically, economically, socially) I chose video games just because I know a bunch about them and I think video games are a big part of today's society.

I'd love to hear some people's responses on the matter. How has video games changed America?

I understand not all of you live in America... I'd still like to hear the effects you think video games have had in your life or in your country.

 

[BlindMessiah94]

Video Games have changed America because it gives politicians a scapegoat to blame all their high school shootings and violent stabbings on.

 

[Hazy]

Well, video games have pretty much become a mainstream fixture in American culture - for better or for worse.

While it's clearly not to the point where everyone sits down to play video games, more accessible, easier to use systems like the Wii have ensured that a newer, arguably more casual[footnote]Note: I'm not saying the Wii can't deliver with hardcore titles. Don't bite my head off, Aura. [/footnote] audience has found the phenomenon, and are promptly partaking in the enjoyment.

Of course, as mentioned above, since it is the newest medium, it is also often used as a scapegoat for violent behavior. Whether this is an accurate or a well-placed accusation, however, is entirely up to you.

 

[Reep]

They have brought attention to idiotic politicians.

Goddamn you Atkinson.

 

[DefunctTheory]

Video games have changed how we entertain ourselves. I'm not sure they've changed anything else, in all honesty.

When your done your report, come back and give us the highlights. Maybe you can illuminate me and change my mind.

 

[Avatar Roku]

I wouldn't say they've changed America as fundamentally as that seems to imply. I think you'd have an easier time explaining how the internet has changed things, if you can still switch your topic.

 

[DefunctTheory]

I wouldn't say they've changed America as fundamentally as that seems to imply. I think you'd have an easier time explaining how the internet has changed things, if you can still switch your topic.

The internet has changed EVERYTHING. That would be an even harder paper... he could write a whole book and still be missing most of the ways the world has changed.

 

[Baron Von Evil Satan]

1. Video games are now used to effectively train soldiers.
2. Changed how people in general interact, view, and deal with violence (for better or worse).
3. Completely changed the face of entertainment throughout the world.
4. They are spreading to all walks of life. From the hardcore WoW raider, to those who play FarmVille on Facebook.

Now if you'll excuse me I have to go and cleanse myself of point 4...

 

[Joe Matsuda]

Video Games have changed America because it gives politicians a scapegoat to blame all their high school shootings and violent stabbings on.

I agree with this post^...

video games now allow kids to play with their friends without ever having to actually be with them

they've shaped modern day movies, for better or for worse (looking at you, every single video game movie ever made, ever)

 

[Avatar Roku]

I wouldn't say they've changed America as fundamentally as that seems to imply. I think you'd have an easier time explaining how the internet has changed things, if you can still switch your topic.

The internet has changed EVERYTHING. That would be an even harder paper... he could write a whole book and still be missing most of the ways the world has changed.

Hm...fair enough, but I think it would still be easier. He doesn't have to encompass everything (I assume, having not seen the prompt), he just has to touch on the major things, which would be easy enough and I can guarantee he'd have enough material.

 

[Lightbinded]

I'm doing a similar report on how Rock has changed America. So my suggestion would be something related to Guitar Hero because it definitely changed my life. Before I never knew who Judas Priest or Iron Maiden were, now it's all I listen to. It has also caused me to start learning how to play an actual guitar. Most importantly, it has actually got me a lot closer to some of my friends, it takes trust not to have people laugh at you when you sing.
Particularly Judas Priest or Iron Maiden.