Question:

When I bought a new computer for myself, I gave my old one to my son. He uses it for gaming and schoolwork. It is working well as far as I can tell, but he often complains about the poor quality of speed and graphics when he plays role games on the Internet. He argues that it reduces his performance in his team, and says it is a problem for him.

I think he is spending more than enough time in front of his computer already, and I am concerned that if he gets a better one, it may be even harder to find a good balance. At the same time, I think it’s a shame if the equipment is a true challenge for him in his gaming hobby and participation in game communities. Our broadband speed seems adequate.

Is it true that the computer is of such vital importance for performance in online games?

Answer from Kids and Media’s International Director:

You are raising two issues: A question about the importance of gear for gaming, and a concern that better equipment could result in spending more time with the computer than you are comfortable with.

The computer is certainly important, especially in shooting or battle games, as it will determine how fast and accurate you can aim and play. In a sense you could say that a gamer will never get enough when it comes to equipment. The speed of the processor, the quality of the graphic card and the size and quality of the monitor are crucial in order to get a smooth picture as possible. The smoother the picture can determine how accurately you are able to play. In other words: Really good equipment creates a true advantage, and vice versa.

The speed of the Internet connection is also important; according to yourself this should be adequate.
Equipment is of course an issue of money, and I leave this to your discussions and considerations to figure out what you are willing and able to prioritise.

When it comes to time consumption:

I recommend you to sit down with your son and discuss with him how much time you think is OK. Perhaps you could come to a common agreement related to how many hours during the week, and also when during the day/night you accept usage of the computer. I think this in general is a good thing for parents to do with their children, but especially in cases where the child is involved in online strategy games that easily becomes very time consuming.

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