La convergencia de los videojuegos online y los mundos virtuales: situación actual y efectos sobre los usuarios

Abstract

This article analyzes the different types of games available today in terms of its ability to connect to the Internet. It also studies the convergence of online videogames with the so-called "virtual worlds" (digital environments in which users choose —and even design— their own characters).

The article also addresses some of the negative effects that have emerged in parallel with the evolution of online games and virtual worlds, such as addiction to its use, the confusion between reality and fiction, online harassment, or displacement of other entertainment formulas. Finally, the article also highlights some positive effects of these types of games, primarily its role as agents of socialization.