MMORPG (Massively Multi-Player Online Role Playing Game) and its Gamers

Many people learn how to communicate in MMORPGs because MMORPGs are intensely social games (2004). MMORPGs can benefit its players by teaching communication, problem solving, and relational skills. Others that do not play this form of game play do not understand that these are not all computer programmed characters, only a few are. The vast majority of these characters are real people playing through the other end. This teaches each person to develop proper manners and communications if they want to succeed within the game. Instead of producing anti-social adults, WoW and other MMORPG's are molding intelligent problem-solvers (Senders, 2006).

On the plus side, when parents become involved with children in MMORPG, a channel of communication opens. When it comes to parents and games, there is definitely a "disconnect;" it seems that there are two completely different cultures, that of the parents and that of the children (Perkins, n.d.). However, once a child see that the parent is interested in his or her interest or the parent allows the child to join their interest in MMORPG then the tension fades away. This will then make the child more likely to share things because of common likes. Because of the common interest, both sides can easily start connecting other likes that were unknown.

For a good example here is an opinion of a kid: "Though I already have an excellent relationship with my parents, I believe that if they were to get interested in what I am interested in, it would cause a much more social relationship. I love my parents, dearly, but it is somewhat difficult to talk to them because of how they may react when I say things."

Parents can use anything in games to teach real life virtues, like completing what you start... (Yee, 2003). Eventually, the bond between the parent and child becomes stronger. Both parents and children may feel that playing EQ (Ever Quest: MMORPG game) together had enhanced their relationship. First it gives them something in common to talk about, and thus more opportunities to talk (Yee, 2003).

Additionally, every MMORPG gamer is a real life person somewhere around the world. And in each country where these individuals live there is different ways of communicating. Another thing that is fascinating about MMORPG's is the fact that your best friend on the game could be some city slicker from Chicago and you could be some nerd from Montana, this MMORPG could be your escape from reality (Schaefer, n.d.).

Furthermore, a lot of teenagers and children struggle with developmental skills. A lot of parents want their kids' behavior change by self teaching them, having their teachers help, or enrolling them in programs. MMORPG teaches these teenagers and kids that this form of behavior is not tolerated by the other gamers.

A mother stated, "I have watched my 14 yr old learn social skills that teachers have tried for years to teach him. I have even heard him telling his friend to watch what he says when playing on my son's character. He didn't want to be represented badly" (Yee, 2003).

Younger people value reaching their goals and they will do almost anything to obtain these even if it means changing their attitude. That is probably one of the most important times of a child's life, taking it as a LEARNING OPPORTUNITY to teach what is right and wrong in games. (Jordan, 2007). These kids are bound to find a few responsible mature gamers which they will see as piers or even idols. The mature gamers usually teach them certain behaviors that are proper and tolerated if they are to continue being friends in the game. Children can use this pool of experiences to learn real life issues or lessons. (Yee 2003).

Another that could be learned through the game is self esteem. Many people go through self esteem problems and keep it a secret. Most do not say anything because they are scared that they are the only one facing this problem or there is nothing else better in life. Playing MMORPGs many players is able to find other players they can relate to and find a comfort zone. Results showed that a significant portion of MMORPG players do tell their online friends about personal issues and secrets that they have never told their real-life friends (link), and these results hint at how these virtual worlds provide a different kind of communication channel than face-to-face communication provides (Yee, 2003). When a comfort zone is achieved people are most likely to deal with esteem problems they have. MMORPGs also have individuals that like to help others and the gamer would most likely allow the help just because it is their fellow comrades. Or mainly because the gamer is a stranger they have never meet before which makes it easier to open up. When they allow this help that they wouldn't do in real life the healing process of their self esteem is increase. MMORPGs also help with esteem because it gives the gamers set goals which are achievable with dedication. These goals do not take years to achieve which gives the person self satisfaction and esteem when it is obtain through their hard work.

MMORPG maybe seen as just a game but when the microscope is place over it a wonderful world is revealed. There are many reasons why people critic these forms of game play but in fact it should be praised too. When the game is play to a minimum and the person takes care of his reality life then the game will offer many contributions to their real world. Moreover, we are all allowed to enjoy ourselves once in a while, and playing these online games is a great way to release ourselves from reality, which can sometimes be very stressing and very demanding. But always remember there is a life outside MMORPGs (Cardiosk, 2006). In conclusion, MMORPG contributes many wonderful aspects to its players that can be carried onto the reality world.