Who: David Walsh, Ph.D., founder and president of the National Institute
on Media and the Family.
What: The 13th Annual MediaWise® Video Game Report Card is being issued
by the National Institute on Media and the Family. This year's
report includes useful tips for parents who plan on purchasing
gaming consoles and video games, in addition to the latest
information on video game addiction. The report card will issue
grades to parents, retailers, the gaming industry and the
Entertainment Software Rating Board (ESRB) for preventing violent
and sexually explicit video games from getting into the hands of
children and teens. Also, the report includes this year's list of
suggested video games for parents, as well as games to avoid.
When: Tuesday, November 25, 2008
Where: Minneapolis -- Satellite link is available the morning of
November 25. Please call 952-851-7227 to schedule a satellite time
or interview.
Why: Gaming has become a big part of family life. The Consumer Electronic
Association claimed that 65 percent of 25-34 year old women are
playing video games. In addition, it has been reported that 47
percent of people living in gaming households say that video games
are a fun way to interact with other family members.
This year was another big year for video games as popular games like
Grand Theft Auto released sequels that shattered previous records.
Nintendo's Wii Fit has also grown in popularity and is being used in
schools districts and long-term care facilities to keep people
active. As the country enters a recession, the North American game
workforce grew by 13 percent.
About the National Institute on Media and the Family
The National Institute on Media and the Family is an independent
non-partisan, non-sectarian, nonprofit organization. The Institute's
mission is to maximize the benefits and minimize the harm of media on the
health and development of children and families. For more information,
visit www.mediawise.org.
Contact Information: Contact: Bill Brozak (o) 952-851-7227 (c) 651-428-8834 Darin Broton (o) 952-851-7286 (c) 651-497-9622