Is there such thing as a video game addiction? If so, tell me about it. If not, then how can one get so hooked?

This is a response the to request by WeddingConsultant concerning if it is possible to become addicted to video games.

Video games are many things to many people. Some are a means of escape, some are a form of entertainment. But no matter what the reason for playing them is, they can be highly addictive. That's how the big ones make the money they do.

There is two different types of games, offline and online games. Offline games are games played by yourself, with no other interaction. This used to be the norm for games, but over time going online is the way to go. It allows interaction with people anywhere in the world. Both can be highly addictive, but online ones tend to be more so. Especially MMORPG's such as the highly popular World of Warcraft. Games with no "end" tend to capture people more then games that can be completed. MMORPG's evolve over time, adding more content, more challenges, more everything.

The addiction comes usually from people trying to escape from reality. Either the lack of a significant other, or a overly nagging one seem to be popular reasons for becoming addictive to games. It gives you a chance to quit being Joe the anonymous accountant, and become Glandar the fierce dwarf warrior. In the game, you are only limited by what you can do, not who you are. You can achieve all the game has to offer at that time, just by putting enough time in.

Warcraft for example is one of the kings of time consuming grinding. It is very easy to play all the time, either to get that last 2k honor for a new piece of gear, or one last attempt at the boss for a chance at some loot, or even that last 200g needed for your epic mount.

As long as their are objectives to be completed, games will be addictive.