Illustration Shows What an Excessive Gamer Could Look Like in 20 Years

Ben Bayliss April 8, 2020 4:38 AM EST

Look after yourself.

Coronavirus has forced most of the world into lockdown, with government officials going from, “Games are bad! They’re to blame for anything and everything.” to “Hey so, stop going outside, stay inside and play games.” Even the WHO has advised that people stay in and play games. And now, with no clear idea of how long the lockdowns across the world are going to have to remain in place, we’ve been given a look at what the gamer could look like in around 20 years time.

Created by onlinecasino.ca, Michael is a visual representation of what the avid gamer could look like in the next 20 years. Of course, this visual representation is only targeting those who don’t change their lifestyle choices and are obviously incredibly devoted to video games. I’d say enough to be classified by the World Health Organisation’s definition of Gaming Disorder.

Let’s have a look. Michael has evolved to have an indent in their skull due to the pressure of over-use of headphones. They have bald patches forming from the lack of sunlight and vitamin D. Bloodshot eyes from staring at a monitor are coupled with dark circles from sleep deprivation and excessive screentime. Lack of air circulation also finds Michael with hairy ears.

Their posture results in a hunched back and rounded shoulders with an obese belly from increased food intake and lack of exercise. The skin is not only pale but covered in eczema. Varicose veins are prominent from sitting down for so long and swollen ankles come from hardly moving. The blisters on their fingers come from excessive use of the controllers or keyboard and mouse, and a trigger finger is a result of repetitive strain injury.

Interestingly, some gaming-themed issues are listed. PlayStation Thumb is apparently repetitive strain from the overuse of the controller. Nintendo Arthritis is an ulceration of the hands, also from excessive controller use. First Person Shooter is the name for excessive use of keyboard and mouse which results in numbness.

It’s safe to say, Michael is not in a fit shape. So how does onlinecasino.ca suggest you change your habits to avoid ending up like this unhealthy gamer? Exercising, preventing eye-strain, a healthy diet, having good posture and staying hydrated.

The report also brings up the UK’s first NHS clinic to treat gaming addiction that was revealed not long ago, as well as quoting clinical psychologist Rebecca Lockwood “I think there’s a lot of social anxiety in young people who are gaming. Gaming is a safe space; you can create a new identity for yourself.” It also mentions “The gaming industry strongly opposed the recognition of ‘gaming addiction’ from the World Health Organization, arguing this could overshadow underlying issues such as anxiety or depression.”

While it’s clear that this has been exaggerated, the report does make some interesting points in regards to health and looking after yourself. It really is important to get your exercise and eating and drinking right. Additionally, if you do feel like you’re struggling to deal with other mental health issues and using gaming as an escape, which isn’t always a bad thing, do look into getting some help, or make use of charities such as Safe in Our World.