Online games should not be banned because they allow you to entertain, interact socially, and increase your brain’s cognitive functions. Playing online games can improve coordination, problem-solving skills, and multitasking abilities. Although some games are violent, this does not mean all games should be banned outright. Online games are good sources of family entertainment and improved mental health.
Why Do Governments Want to Ban Online Games
Several reasons to ban online games are:
- Addiction to Games
- Financial Risks
- Impact on Academic Performance
- Impact on Social Interactions
- Money Laundering
- Technical Internet Problems
Some of these reasons make sense, but this does not mean completely banning all online games.
So why shouldn’t games be banned? Let’s analyze the economic and mental health benefits of online games.
Economic Benefits
Governments should not ban online casino games because they contribute to the overall economy.
For example, online casino games contributed over $53.7 billion to the gambling market in 2019 before the Covid-19 pandemic.
Online gaming platforms have generated hundreds of thousands of jobs worldwide, from software developers, game designers, digital marketers, customer support staff, etc.
Online gaming platforms, particularly casinos, generate a lot of revenue so governments can benefit from the taxation.
The government can use tax funds to streamline public projects and services. More and more companies invest in online games as the industry grows.
For instance, companies develop advanced gaming software, new gaming solutions, and secure payment methods.
Another economic benefit of why games should not be banned is stimulating industries like marketing, cybersecurity, and digital payment platforms.
Online Games = Entertainment
Online games offer various entertainment options and benefits, including:
- Variety of best games, from action and adventure to sports and puzzles
- HD Graphics and engaging gameplay mechanics
- Challenges and achievements players can complete and enjoy
- Open-world environments in some games promote creativity and exploration
Mental Health Benefits
In addition to economic benefits and entertainment, online games have good mental health benefits. These include:
- Stress relief
- Mental stimulation
- Problem-solving skills
- Health promotion
- Prevention of anxiety and depression
- Improved cognitive abilities
Several studies have proven the worth of the online gaming industry because they are a valuable tool for improving mood, relieving stress, and providing therapeutic benefits.
But keep in mind that games’ effectiveness can vary depending on their types and players’ mental health conditions.
Online games are more beneficial supplements than traditional therapies. However, you must not see them as a replacement for professional mental health remedies, such as medications and cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT). Other evidence-based benefits are:
- Learning opportunities
- Goal setting and achievement
- Improved hand-eye coordination
Regulation vs. Banning
Instead of banning online casino games, regulating them is the most effective and balanced approach.
Governments should promote responsible gaming by making policies around betting limits, encouraging casinos to implement robust age verification processes, and offering self-exclusion tools.
For example, casinos without Swedish license have a list of MGA and Curacao-licensed casinos.
Not only do these casinos protect players, but they are regulated to ensure fairness and transparency.
So, there is no need to ban online games. Instead, governments should come up with policies that protect players from fraudulent practices.
Regulating online gaming platforms, including casinos, is important to preventing players from unsafe platforms.
Final Words
There is no need to ban online games until they promote violence. Instead, authorities should focus on robust regulations and parental controls to ensure players’ protection and the game industry’s integrity. Lastly, responsible gaming policies are important for casino games played by adults.