The content of the games – i.e. violence or otherwise – is something parents need to witness for themselves as things are rarely so simple as violent-or-not. Each game has subtleties much as books do. Being involved can allow a guidance toward or away from content that is in tune with that particular family’s values.

Of course, this is easier said than done. Parents are beyond strapped for time needing to work unbelievably hard to make ends meet. It can be so tempting to give kids unrestricted time and space to roam in a game as it “gives kids something to do” while a parent can get much needed respite. Regardless, parents still needs to be there in that environment assessing that environment even if “virtual.” What seems as a way for immediate relaxation can one day come back to bite them.