There seems to be a #trending topic in the last few days here in the blogosphere in regard to MMO gaming nostalgia, with recent posts like this one from from Syp at Bio Break, then from Game by Night, and Kill Ten Rats even having chimed in on this topic. I realize that most of the discussion is about looking back at a previously played game with fondness for the good times we had, yet also realizing the displeasure leading to why we moved on.  However, I wonder where addiction comes into play for some gamers.

So many of us gamers, especially the MMO crowd, seem to be recovering as if we are heavily dependent addicts to “our” game.  What causes this? How many quests, levels, un-subs, re-subs, free trials must we go through? Personally I’ve been battling this with Wow, for the last year. It’s start a character and the fun returns, then it’s gone, rinse and repeat.

So how do you know – really know – when its time to just call it quits and move on, or quit all together? Here are some basic tell-tale signs that may signal that it is time to see what else the market has for you, or whether you should take a step back from gaming all together:

Full slate of characters from mounds of time invested
How long have you been playing, is this your 3rd expansion pack? Do you have all the playable characters maxed out? Can you hop on and have a character at various levels to play with new found friends or a fellow guild mates that are rolling an alt?  Can you casually jump back and forth between your main for whatever endgame content you need to do, but also have leveled enough alts that you can moderately play with them if you choose to?  In this case you’ve probably been playing so long you have all the different level brackets full of characters you can play at a whim.

Factions and servers
Not only do you have the different level brackets covered, but you may find your self wondering if the grass is really greener on the other side. Have you tried to level an alt on another server or another faction only to find that starting over isn’t as much fun as you thought it might be?

The Treadmill
Done that and got the t-shirt? Maybe your guild is so tight knit and goal oriented that you have done all there is to do in the current game.  Do you have all the major achievements and titles one would require to feel adequate? On the other hand, you could be feeling bogged down by the daily monotonous tread mill of game play for gear, emblems, or reputation.

Waiting for groups
Do you log on, only to find something else other than playing the game, grabbing for your attention? How about finding your self just jumping around Orgrimmar or Stormwind (for you Wow players) searching for that last hope of a tank for that pug TOC 10 man or a pre-made Pvp group LFM players?

New game or no game?
All of these are very good indicators that you should probably check out what’s new in the market, and maybe take a nice needed vacation in real life if you feel chained to a game that brings you little enjoyment.  Lastly, I would like to just touch on something that could be a concern to you (or not) and share a link to a video that may help you if you find yourself too glued to your game.

Video games may or may not become an addiction for you. I know that after the first time I quit Wow I would spend just as much time looking at Warhammer Online material.  Believe it or not, I spent just as much time waiting for the open beta and head start as I did when I was actually playing Wow.  Whether its a single game or gaming as a whole, its something to be cautious about.  I think it happens more often than we think, and to more people. We get so involved in finding the next hot title and trying to see were or what the best class/server/race etc will be and it becomes something more then a hobby.

If you are able to manage all that an MMO can throw at you, and still balance your life and other responsibilities – I salute you! As friends, gamers, and a community we should be able to talk, express concern and offer help to those we perceive may have a problem.

Addiction: What is addiction?
Addiction is a complex problem, affecting not only the physical and mental health of individuals, but also their families and social environment

Well, this has been a more serious post, but hopefully one that will get you to think, and even act, if you believe that you know someone who could use help. As always moderation is key and I hope you guys enjoy all the games that are out. I know I am, but remember to spend time with family friends and take care of your responsibilities before your game time!

Game on!

~Kaldeem