British study reveals positive aspects of gaming
A British study has recently concluded that playing video games can actually be a beneficial past time for young people as it helps them build social skills. As young people spend as much time playing games as doing their homework this is probably good news for parents.
Researchers at Brunel University used an online java-based gaming world called RuneScape operated by a small UK developer Jagex. It is similar to US games like Warcraft and Everquest, with an emphasis on role-play and character development.
What makes RuneScape different and this research project interesting is that the game is not only instantly accessible (you can be playing in under five minutes from login) but it is also free. The research indicates that gaming offers young people the chance to develop important social and cultural skills which carry significance for real life.