Study Says Wii Controls Don't Induce Violence

A recent study at Villanova University shows that games using motion control don't influence the aggression in players any more than standard controls do.  Dr. Patrick Markey examined individuals playing Manhunt 2 and Tiger Woods PGA Tour 2008 (otherwise known as the only AO Wii game in existence).

Consisting of 118 participants (50 being male and 68 being female), the examination began with measuring levels of psychoticism.  After playing one of the two Wii games, another measure was taken.  Psychoticism, meaning hostility, aggression, and similar negative feelings, were found to not have resulted from playing the Wii games.

Participants that showed a significant level of aggression and psychoticism prior to playing the game showed different affects, however.  Those showing these signs actually had an increase in psychoticism after playing, and "were much more affected by violent video games than other participants."

The use of Manhunt 2 was an interesting choice in the study; it being the Wii's most controversial, and one of the most violent titles available on the platform.  We can only hope that this choice helps put some of the myths to rest.  And it is important to also understand that video games are a medium that affects each of us differently.  I think that's a much easier pill to swallow compared to the "games = aggressiveness" trend that has continued to prevail.