IntroductionFor more than 30 years, video games have been a popular activity among many American children. With over $63 billion (Reuters, reuters.com) sold each year, video games are here to stay. Although many controversies have arisen on the topic, video games have brought great benefits to the United States of America and its citizens. For example, the Army and CIA use games to train soldiers (Davidson, www.ehow.com), and classrooms use video games to teach students. The potential is infinite. Some studies show that playing video games improves some mental functions. However, when exposed to violent video games, some people develop antisocial and aggressive behaviors. To understand the potential benefits and dangers of video games and make informed purchasing decisions, it is important to consider the history of video games, their military use, their educational value, and the effects they have on the brain. History In 1986, the video game industry was failing miserably, with a meager total value of $100 million. Then, Nintendo, initially a trading card company, launched the Nintendo Entertainment System, reviving the video game industry from its imminent death. With hits like "Super Mario Brothers" and "Adventure Island," sales skyrocketed, keeping video games from becoming just a fad. Technological advances and new ideas like glasses-free 3D, Kinect body tracking, and augmented reality help make the video game industry one of the largest industries on the planet. These technologies are currently used by institutions such as NASA, the military, the public school system, and the CIA as well as just being fun pastimes. Video game technology is visible and integrated… middle of paper… games can desensitize a person to violence, many video games can be a fun and even educational experience. Used to train soldiers and proven to stimulate the brain, video games have a reputation for being one of the first sources of entertainment people turn to while also benefiting the player. Video games should be recognized as an educational and healthy experience, not an antisocial experience that can harm the minds of our youth! Studies have shown that many video games can help players in many ways: stimulating the brain, educating and involving children in great projects are some examples. Although some video games harm the mind, players can be equipped with the knowledge to avoid such games. While violent games can desensitize a player to violence, video games are the most effective way to convey information to a naturally captive audience..