Societal Impact of Violent Video Games Examined

KPBS | By KPBS Public Broadcasting

Published October 25, 2006 at 7:42 AM PDT

This story was published more than 18 years ago.

Video games are increasingly sophisticated and increasingly violent. Host Tom Fudge talks to the creator of a video game based on the events of the Columbine shootings and a psychologist who studies t

Tom Fudge : Violent video games are extremely popular in this country, and they’re extremely controversial. Some argue that they are harmless diversions. Some researchers, on the other hand, say there is evidence that the games can play a role in triggering violent behavior.

One of the most controversial violent video games in recent memory was created by a 25-year-old Colorado man named Danny Ledonne. His game is called Super Columbine Massacre RPG! You may have guessed that it is based on the murder of 13 people at Columbine High School in 1999.

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In the game, the player assumes the identity of one of the killers, Eric Harris and Dylan Klebold. The player goes on to overcome certain obstacles to commit the crime. He then dies and battles demons in hell.

Guests

Danny Ledonne , creator of Super Columbine Massacre RPG!
Dr. Karen Dill, associate professor of psychology at Lenoir-Rhyne College and member of the Committee on Violence in Video Games and Interactive Media of the American Psychological Association.