Re-Examining Problematic Game Mechanics
Many popular video games enable problematic activities like theft, violence, and manipulation as core mechanics. While some may view these as harmless within the context of fantasy worlds, real-world research increasingly suggests reinforcement of concerning attitudes and behaviors.
As conscious media consumers, we must re-examine mechanics that trivialize harm, promote selfishness, and erode ethical boundaries. Rather than unquestioningly accept them as normal, we should thoughtfully analyze their impacts and implications.
Stealing Mechanics in Games
In open world RPGs like Skyrim, players can often steal items without consequence. Game systems communicating that taking someone‘s possessions is permissible could subtly influence perceptions about property rights and entitlement in the real world.
While introducing moral choice systems and penalties for unethical acts would improve messaging, more fundamental solutions should be explored. Creating symbiotic collaborative systems not reliant on theft could inspire creativity from players and developers alike.
Imagining More Ethical Game Design
What if victory conditions centered not on personal power and wealth, but on lifting up communities through compassionate action? Systems fostering cooperation, redemption, service, and win-win relationships may better nurture pro-social skills transferable to real life.
Rather than reactively mitigating harm after enabling it, ethical game design involves proactively building systems aligned with moral values from the ground up. This foundation then supports the emergence of uplifting play.
Our Shared Responsibility
Game developers shape powerful cultural artifacts influencing societies. Yet as players, our choices also guide production. Supporting unethical mechanics implicitly endorses their inclusion.
By carefully examining our entertainment media against the highest ethical principles of human dignity and non-harm, we take responsibility for the world we co-create. Our future depends on rising to meet this challenge with wisdom and courage.
