“Guys like the fantasy of games, whereas girls prefer reality.” – Austin Herdina, a sophomore

For all practical purposes, I consider myself to be a typical girl. My interests include things such as shopping and puppies. I also have dislikes including spiders and video games.

Ah, video games.

Why is it that when the newest installment of “Hitman” was released, my boyfriend disappeared for a week straight? Blockbuster nearly came to his house demanding the game be returned.

Of course when I was younger, I played an occasional game of “007” or “Mario Kart.” However, I cannot understand the fixation males have with this pastime.

In attempts to shed some light on this issue, I went straight to the source: the gamers themselves. I visited the UWM Recreation Center, located in the lower level of the Union. The recreation center offers four Xboxes and an assortment of games.

Austin Herdina, a sophomore, was watching a game when I found him in the Union. Herdina said he comes to the Union because he can always find someone new to play with — aside from his friends.

“Girls think video games are boring or do not understand why guys play them,” he said. “Guys like the fantasy of games, whereas girls prefer reality.”

When asked why he likes video games, Herdina simply said that “it is something to do” and that he prefers sports games.

Nick Burnett, a junior, said he comes to the Union to play video games with his friends, as opposed to strangers. Since he does not have a game console at his house, the Union is his best option.

“I like ‘Call of Duty 2’ the best,” said Burnett, who has been gaming for several years.

Talking to the gamers themselves gave me more insight into the widely popular activity. Gaming can be an escape or a chance for socializing.

I still do not see the draw to video games, but I certainly appreciate its popularity. As I sit here writing, shouts and various curse words float up from downstairs where my boyfriend and his roommates enjoy a rousing game of “NCAA Football 2003.”

I will no longer question gamers or try to understand what “The World” is because I know I will always have shopping.

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