A Time to Destroy: The games that destroy us

post from Destructoid on 25 December 2008 06:05:00 AM. © Destructoid

[Editor's note: megaStryke looks at three games that have destroyed people's bodies for his A Time to Destroy Monthly Musing. -- CTZ]

Games are considered a safe activity because they provide an engaging and immersive experience without the need to leave home. Maybe as a kid you didn't get outside much, but damn it all, at least you weren't outside taking jumps on your bike off the collapsed fence and over the fetid canal behind that 7-Eleven half a block from your house. Your parents should be grateful for that! Maybe there is some truth to the assumption that unchecked gaming can lead to irreparable psychological harm, but at least you won't be breaking any bones!

However, there exist a number of games that demand a little extra commitment, just enough to present an eyebrow-raising safety hazard. Without exercising caution, you too can become the victim of an honest-to-God gaming injury.

Like I said, these games typically require a little extra interaction. In other words, the means with which you control the game itself are rather unconventional. Maybe the game comes with a custom controller or maybe you are required to hold a standard controller in an awkward fashion. If you aren't plopped down on your La-Z-Boy with your controller firmly clasped between your palms, your chances of winding up in traction will shoot up exponentially (slight exaggeration, but ... well, just keep reading).

The following are three big offenders in the game world. Some of the photos might be disturbing ... so let's get started, shall we?