SearchWhat Is Fortnite?
Unless you haven’t had any access to the media in the past few years, you most likely know what Fortnite is; but here’s a refresher. Fortnite Battle Royale is the most popular video game in the world this year. The free shooter game, which offers in-app purchases, drops up to 100 players at once onto an island unarmed. The last player on the island is the winner. The video game has gained so much momentum since its release that there are now Fortnite tournaments around the globe and even a Fortnite World Cup, which attracts millions of people. Currently, over a quarter of a billion people play or have played Fortnite Battle Royale.
Who Plays Fortnite?
Teens’ Obsession With Fortnite
Fortnite Addiction Claims
Parents everywhere have been opening lawsuits against Fortnite creators. Claims have stated that Fortnite releases dopamine like a drug and was designed by psychologists who specifically tried to create an addictive game for children. Here are some more claims that have been discovered:
- 300 marriages have reportedly ended due to Fortnite
- Parents say it can get in the way of brain development
- One teen reportedly kept playing during a tornado
- Teens have stolen their parents’ credit cards to make in-app purchases
- “Slot machine” tactics manipulate users to keep buying in-app add-ons
So what leads people to express these addictive behaviors over a video game? And what makes this specific video game stand out above the rest?
What Makes It So Addictive?
Here are just a few Fortnite features that may entice people to continuously play the game:
- Upgrading and customization options
- In-app purchases
- A shop refreshed with new items daily
- Ability to Level Up every 10 weeks
- Live map events and map changes
- High stakes — staying alive is the difference between winning and losing
If your teen or another loved one is showing interest toward these features and the game, it’s possible that they can start becoming obsessed with playing.
Gaming Addiction
Here are some signs that your loved one may be addiction to Fortnite or another video game:
- Irritability or moodiness when not able to play
- Lack of control
- Lack of interest in other activities
- Playing continuously, never getting enough
- Stealing money to make in-app purchases
- Jeopardizing school or work to play
The main difference between Fortnite being a hobby and addiction is the effect it has on a person’s life. When a person keeps playing despite the game interfering with their life, it can become dangerous.
Supporting Fortnite Addiction
If you think your child is showing the above signs of Fortnite addiction, There are a few boundaries you can set to help them regulate their obsession with the game:
- Allot a certain amount of playing time per week
- Make sure homework and exercise come first
- Keep gaming systems in a central location
- Encourage other hobbies as well
- Encourage time with real-life friends
To learn more about Fortnite addiction and other compulsive video game tendencies, contact our team of professionals by visiting here or calling 267.719.8689.
