Do you remember the Pokemon Go phenomenon? That augmented reality video game that allowed the virtual “hunting” of the characteristic animals of the Pokemon brand? It definitely created a stir of diverse opinions, for better and for worse. In recent months, another online video game has been capturing media attention. This is Fortnite, an online video game that allows users to create a world and play against other users.
The Fortnite phenomenon
Fortnite is a video game that provides the user with an immersive experience in a changing world of fighting for survival. Its colors, sounds, and bizarre characters make this game a more entertaining version of conventional shooting games. Even so, it is worth looking at why Fortnite is causing controversy.
The discussion regarding video game addiction has been a hot topic since the WHO announced in January 2018 that abusive use could be considered a pathology. This is why the excessive fondness for Fortnite has sounded the alarm. In recent months, cases of abuse of this video game have been detected, not only in adolescents but also among the adult public.
It should be noted that Fortnite is a truly entertaining game. Perhaps it is its popularity that has contributed to sparking criticism. It is a particular case that helps illustrate the problem of virtual reality abuse. Although it may be apparently playful and harmless, an uncontrolled and abusive experience will affect our health.
It is normal and even positive to find rewarding activities that make us practice specific attention and concentration skills, as is the case with many well-designed video games. Even so, it is necessary to prevent, especially in summer, a constant use of technologies that tend to be absorbing by measuring and limiting the time dedicated to them. We must learn to disconnect from exclusively online worlds and connect with our lives as a whole.
