Unplugged: My Journey into the Dark World of Video Game Addiction

Ryan G. Van Cleave, PhD
HCI (2010)
ISBN 9780757313622
Reviewed by Carol Hoyer, PhD, for Reader Views (07/10)


I have to say that after being a substance-abuse counselor for over twenty-five years, I never imagined that we would come to this- video game addiction. However, I do believe that the author truly gave his own insight into how he got addicted, even though he didn’t believe it and lost his whole world. He gives you the opportunity to get inside his mind, his passion and neglect of everything he loved to “Play.” His vivid descriptions of his thoughts, withdrawal and putting video games before anything really gives readers an insight to what goes on in the mind of gamers.

Thinking back now on when video games first came out and how crude they were as in comparison today, it’s no wonder our children, husbands and family members get addicted. What holds the power is that you have no control over your life and once you enter this realm, you can be whomever you want and act how you want to. We all want to be in control and be powerful, as well as be admired for our talents. It is no different with video games.

Even like those who have other addictions, one always says they will quit or cut back, but it never happens. We choose our friends by what they do and that is what we want to do. We don’t sleep, eat, exercise or pay attention to our family or friends. Even if we have family who try to understand what is going on with us, no one really knows what goes on in the mind of an addict. We choose risky behavior- regardless of who it will hurt. You will see this in the author’s tales of what he did to try to ignore playing- drinking, sex with others whom he really didn’t care about and placating others- just to get his fix.

You will be amazed that he could talk about others whom he thought were “addicted,” but it wasn’t him. His long road to recovery led to having a website for those who feel they are addicted to video games. He is still in recovery, for it is a life-long process. There is always the temptation to just “do it” one more time. One of the catches for him was the social aspect- dealing with people who thought like he did and wanted the same thing- ongoing challenges that hyped you.

“Unplugged: My Journey into the Dark World of Video Game Addiction” contains amazing information and this is a book I will discuss with my college psychology class when we talk about addictions. It is an amazing read that will really get you to look at your game playing or that of others you love. The author gives a great many resources to help those who are addicted or starting the addiction process.

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