Video Story
Watch VideoOnline games cost teens plenty of cash
Story By: Bea Karnes
Source: NBC
It's no secret that video games can become addictive. But now they can cost children more than just their time. While many games are free to download, they become more and more expensive as you get further into the game.
Mystical helicopters, magical powers, and monster battles are all found inside the World of Warcraft. Online gamer Stephanie Stefanski says she spent a summer playing it -- staying up until 4am every night.
Every teen we spoke to firmly believes all the games are designed to suck them in so they spend more money. Andrew Willis said, "I could see how you could really spend a lot of money."
We found this site selling World of Warcraft character accessories. It even sells high level characters for more than $5,000. Stephanie Stefanski said, "It's all social status. You want to have your character looking as cool as possible with the rarest items."
The newest game, Maple Story, allows users to buy everything from clothes and flowers for the characters, even plastic surgery. All with real cash. Cali Lewis of Geekbrief.tv said, "Parents should take time to watch their kids play the game...It's not a bad thing if you can teach your kid to control the usage."
The game makers all encourage players to use good judgement but insist they can't be responsible for kids who go overboard. Andrew Willis said, "I am going to keep playing it and try not to get my life sucked in."
