Shooters on Smartphones: How to Discuss Violence in Games with Children?

What are Shooters?

Shooters are a genre of video games that emphasize projectile-based combat between players or against computer-controlled opponents. These games can be categorized into first-person shooters (FPS) and third-person shooters, depending on the camera perspective. Shooters often feature realistic or fantastical weapons, strategic gameplay, and competitive environments that require quick reflexes and tactical thinking. While traditionally associated with consoles and PCs, the rise of smartphones has brought shooters to a broader and younger audience, making them easily accessible and highly engaging for kids and teenagers.

PUBG Mobile, Call of Duty: Mobile, Fortnite, Standoff 2, Garena Free Fire – What Makes Them Appealing to Kids?

PUBG Mobile

PUBG Mobile is a battle royale game where players are dropped onto an island to scavenge for weapons and equipment, aiming to be the last person or team standing. Its appeal lies in its realistic graphics, strategic gameplay, and the thrill of survival, which keeps players engaged for hours. The competitive nature and the social aspect of teaming up with friends make it particularly attractive to young gamers.

Call of Duty: Mobile

Call of Duty: Mobile brings the iconic FPS franchise to smartphones, offering various game modes like Team Deathmatch, Battle Royale, and Zombies. Its high-quality graphics, responsive controls, and diverse range of weapons and equipment provide an immersive experience. The inclusion of familiar elements from the Call of Duty series also attracts fans of the franchise, making it a staple choice for shooter enthusiasts.

Fortnite

Fortnite is known for its unique blend of shooting mechanics and building elements. The game’s vibrant graphics, constant updates, and seasonal events create a dynamic environment that keeps players engaged. Additionally, its cross-platform capabilities and strong social features allow kids to connect and play with friends seamlessly, enhancing its widespread popularity.

Standoff 2

Standoff 2 is a tactical FPS that offers both casual and competitive modes. Its emphasis on strategy, precision, and teamwork appeals to players who enjoy a more methodical approach to shooting games. The game features various maps, weapons, and customization options, providing a personalized gaming experience that resonates with young players.

Garena Free Fire

Garena Free Fire is another battle royale game tailored for mobile devices, known for its quick matches and easier access on lower-end smartphones. Its fast-paced gameplay, diverse characters with unique abilities, and frequent updates with new content make it highly appealing to kids looking for a quick and engaging gaming session.

Do Shooters Affect Children’s Behavior?

The impact of shooter games on children's behavior has been a topic of extensive research and debate. While some studies suggest a correlation between exposure to violent games and increased aggression or desensitization to violence, others argue that the relationship is not straightforward and is influenced by various factors such as the child's environment, personality, and the context in which games are played.

Potential Positive Impacts:

• Improved Cognitive Skills: Shooters can enhance hand-eye coordination, reaction times, and strategic thinking.
• Social Interaction: Multiplayer shooters foster teamwork and communication skills as players collaborate to achieve common goals.

Potential Negative Impacts:

• Aggression: Prolonged exposure to violent content may contribute to aggressive behavior in some children.
• Desensitization: Repeated exposure to violence can lead to reduced emotional responsiveness to real-world aggression.
• Addiction: The addictive nature of competitive shooters can result in excessive gaming, impacting academic performance and social interactions.

Ultimately, the effects vary among individuals, making it essential for parents to monitor and engage with their children's gaming habits to mitigate potential risks while encouraging the positive aspects.

How to Talk to Children About Violence in Games?

Discussing violence in shooter games with children requires a balanced and understanding approach. Here are several strategies to facilitate these conversations effectively:

• Be Open and Non-Judgmental

Create a safe space where children feel comfortable sharing their gaming experiences without fear of reprimand. Encourage open dialogue by expressing genuine interest in the games they play.

• Understand the Game Content

Take the time to play or observe the games your child is involved in. Understanding the gameplay mechanics, storylines, and levels of violence will help you discuss the content more effectively.

• Set Clear Guidelines and Boundaries

Establish rules regarding when and how long your child can play shooter games. Discuss the importance of balancing gaming with other activities such as homework, physical exercise, and social interactions.

• Discuss Real vs. Virtual Violence

Help children differentiate between real-life consequences of violence and the fictional nature of game scenarios. Emphasize that actions in games do not translate to acceptable behavior in the real world.

• Encourage Critical Thinking

Ask questions that prompt children to think critically about the games they play. For example, "How do you feel when something violent happens in the game?" or "What do you think about the characters' actions?"

• Promote Empathy and Compassion

Use gaming scenarios as opportunities to teach empathy. Discuss how characters in the game might feel and the impact of violent actions, fostering a sense of compassion and understanding.

Practical Tips for Parents

Navigating the world of shooters on smartphones can be challenging for parents. Here are some practical tips to help manage your child's gaming experience effectively:

1. Utilize Parental Control Features
Implementing parental control tools is essential for monitoring and regulating game usage. These tools allow parents to set time limits, restrict access to certain games, and monitor in-game interactions.

2. App Blocking with Kroha Parental Control
One effective tool is the App Blocking feature in the Kroha Parental Control app. This feature enables parents to block specific applications, including shooter games, thereby limiting screen time and preventing access during inappropriate hours. By setting these restrictions, parents can ensure a healthy balance between gaming and other important activities. Learn more about this feature here.

3. Encourage Alternative Activities
Promote participation in non-screen activities such as sports, reading, and hobbies. Providing a variety of options helps children develop diverse interests and reduces dependency on gaming for entertainment.

4. Set a Positive Example
Model healthy gaming habits by managing your own screen time and demonstrating balanced usage of technology. Children often emulate their parents' behaviors, making it important to showcase responsible practices.

5. Stay Informed About Game Updates
Shooter games frequently update with new content, features, and potential changes in content ratings. Staying informed about these updates helps parents make timely decisions regarding their child's access to certain games.

6. Communicate Regularly
Maintain ongoing conversations about your child's gaming experiences. Regular check-ins help you stay aware of their preferences, challenges, and any potential issues arising from game content.

Conclusion

As shooter games like Call of Duty: Mobile, Fortnite, Garena Free Fire, PUBG Mobile, and Standoff 2 continue to dominate the smartphone gaming landscape, it is imperative for parents to engage in thoughtful discussions about the violence depicted in these games. By understanding the appeal of these shooters, recognizing their potential impact on behavior, and implementing practical strategies for parental control and open communication, parents can help their children navigate the digital gaming world safely and responsibly. Balancing gaming with other aspects of life ensures that children benefit from the positive aspects of gaming while minimizing the risks associated with exposure to violent content.