aw Mookin, (((((hugs))))) a video game is like any other addiction imo. I cycle through compulsions. I specifically avoided WOW. Co-workers have tried to talk me into playing, but I don't like the aspect of the game that requires you to be dependent on other people to complete quests.

I'm a Sims 2 addict, Zelda, and Star Ocean (only RPG's that I've been able to play over and over).

I also go through stages that all I do is read, crochet, knit, clean, cook and home improvements. It would be nice if I could balance them all out and do a little of each, but that is not the way it works.

I've never considered them tools of avoidance, it's just really nice to have a distraction. I don't know where I'd be without them frankly, they are stress relievers and give me a break from the compuslive worrying.

Is there a way you can parlay your game into a social situation? Here they have a WOW club that gets together to discuss stratagies and stuff.