Maybe it's because this is a presidential election year and I've definitely spent more time mashing away than paying attention to the real world issues closing in around me, but I'm compelled to ask the question: are video games really unadulterated escapism?

On one hand you gotta know it that they are. Honestly, if they weren't why would we spend so much time and money on them, but thankfully contrary to the mantra of concerned parents and over-protective regulatory bodies everywhere, our little obsession does have some relevance in the real world. War? check. Crime? check. Technological advances? check. Unfortunately for nay-sayers hoping that kids will grow out of video games, games are looking as relevant as any other entertainment-based pursuit these days, reflecting the challenges humanity faces as a whole rather than a stereotypically violent bit of escapism. So to Moms and Dads everywhere, keep up the vigilance and thanks for the concern, but the kids are alright.

Check out three atypical video games related stories below that you may have missed that were plucked from the pages of gamepolitics.com.

• Metal Gear Solid Technical Advisor Busted By Feds for Shipping Weapons Parts
• Renewed Controversy over Iraqi Artist's Virtual Jihadi Game
• Military Using Game Controllers to Pilot Drones, Disarm Bombs

--Hobson's Choice

Read reviews and shop for great bargains at the Gaming Corner. >>>