How many times have you gone into a room on a game and encountered little 13-14 year old Jimmy.  Now, Jimmy happens to be the loudest and most obnoxious person in the room, and likes to scream over the mic, team kill and trash talk. Then, if you are hosting the room in which jimmy is being a total brat, you have no choice but to boot him. Then, Jimmy decides to send you a lovely message telling you how much he hates you.  I think everyone has experienced a little Jimmy at least once on Xbox live.

Don’t get me wrong – I have played with some preteens before that have been very nice and respectful, but there are a few out there who really need to read the ESRB warning on the cover of the game.  If it’s “M for Mature” and their parents don’t understand what that means, then there is a problem.  Parents need to become aware that gaming is not just for children; adults game too!  I’m sick of hearing people tell me, “Why do you play video games? They are for children.” Adults play games too!!!

I think it is also the responsibility of the person selling the games to notify the parents of the type of content in the game.  When I used to work at Game Stop, I remember that my co-workers and I would inform parents of what type of stuff their child’s game of choice contains; some parents listened, while others did not.  Unfortunately, sometimes parents vent their frustration on the employees of game stores when they find out that their child has been playing a game where people perform extreme acts of violence.  Parents, be aware of the games your child is playing and be a good judge of character on their maturity level.  Some kids can handle it well without being overbearing and some kids can’t.

I don’t think little Jimmy can handle it.

Game on!