[maerF0x0]

> is a lack of gratification.

Actually a really big harm is the opportunity cost and substitution for real life.

Video games feel like achievement but they're not --> so they don't get the rewards in life that come with real achievement --> so when they engage with real life it kinda sucks (from neglected chores, to neglected career and relationships) --> So they go to video games for that gratification feeling of status/achievement.

[Barrin92]

ironically enough thinking your life revolves around opportunity costs, achievements and reward cycles is a much more severe form of gamification than having a good time and playing some video games.

People putting in those 80 hours to get that one bonus and the guy trying to get all the Steam achievements are spiritually the same person, whether the source of the dopamine rushes is virtual or analog doesn't make much of a difference, including in terms of resulting misery.

Games as a form of creativity, play and connection are fantastic precisely because they're simply leisure activities, something increasingly lost on most people.