A leading developer behind the Call of Duty (CoD) franchise has responded to claims that their video games contribute to unhealthy lifestyles among young men.
Pete Actipis, a designer on CoD games like last year’s Black Ops 6, insists gaming is simply an entertainment medium, not a societal menace.
“We are not here to dictate anything other than an outlet for enjoyment and entertainment for a player,” Actipis told in an interview with BBC. He addressed concerns raised by former England manager Sir Gareth Southgate. In a speech earlier this year, Southgate warned of young men falling into “unhealthy alternatives like gaming, gambling, and pornography.”
The debate over gaming’s influence has been reignited by Netflix’s Adolescence, which is a drama exploring themes of youth violence and digital escapism. UK Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer described the show as “really hard to watch.”
Actipis argues that gaming, like any other activity, depends on how it is consumed. “Every person can determine what’s right for their situation. It’s about moderation and personal choice,” he said.
However, some gamers have supported Actipis’s argument. Competitive player Rhys highlighted the professional opportunities gaming offers, saying, “People see someone playing for eight hours and assume it’s a waste, but for some, it’s a livelihood.”
However, female gamers like AbiCoops note the industry’s darker side. She recounted harassment experiences, including stalking and verbal abuse, yet maintains gaming has had a net positive impact on her life. “I met my closest friends online. It’s brought my family closer,” she shared.
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