It can happen in an
instant. One minute, you’re holding hands in the park, feeding each
other sushi at sidewalk cafés, and dressing up for nights on the town.
The next, you’re sprawled in front of the TV in dingy sweats, boasting
about who’s going to kick whose ass.
For as long as I can
remember, my relationships have evolved—or perhaps I should say
devolved—into the video-game arena. And I’m not alone. According to the
Entertainment Software Association, 75 percent of all heads of
households play video and computer games; 43 percent of these players
are women.
If you, too, are in the “if you can’t beat ’em, join
’em” camp, take heart. There’s evidence that playing can improve your
handeye coordination, and a 2003 University of Rochester study found
that it boosts visual-attention skills, rendering you more aware of
your environment. And consider the relationship boon: You can work
cooperatively to save the world from deadly invasion, settle lingering
grudges with a karate chop to the head, race each other to the finish
line, and even kick it up a notch in the bedroom. All that fighting,
speeding, and shooting can act like virtual Viagra.
“When we
play fighting games, it’s more ‘who killed who,’ or ‘who beat who,’”
explains Gary, a 26-year-old entrepreneur from Chicago. “But in coop
mode, we try to work together, like giving hints about what to do and
alerting each other if there’s a guy behind them. I like to think it
brings my girlfriend and me closer together.”
Laura, a
29-year-old technology director from New York City who plays with her
boyfriend, agrees. “We tend to go for racing games. Of course, he
always cheats by trying to run me off the road. But that’s why it’s so
cool when I win. Sometimes we place wagers: The last time he lost, I
made him wear a tie out to dinner. In the end, it’s more about being
playful than being competitive.”
so here we are do u stil think xbox drivin you away from each other??
Tue Jul 10, 2007 8:58 pm