Chinese Government Enforces Online Gaming Curbs

In an attempt to restrain online game addiction, which they believe to cause all juvenile vice, Chinese government has ordered that kids under 18 can only play online games for a maximum of five hours. Online game operators are required to set up a “game fatigue system” for users below 18 years of age that warns them to stop and exercise after three nonstop hours of play and to go offline immediately after five hours. Although these regulations don’t apply to all games like online poker and such. None have been mentioned targeting them. But, minors who disobey the system will not only find their points cut to zero but also will be compelled to attend an Internet Addiction Clinic.

Though it may not be favorable to the gaming population, I think this new regulation is a great idea to at least minimize the negative effects of online games to the youth. However, this new mandate can be an infringement of personal freedom and rights. Besides, how about being addicted to offline video games, TV, alcohol, or even drugs?