Video games are not necessarily addictive, nor do people who play video games necessarily develop addictive behavior. However, they are potentially addictive, especially among more vulnerable populations such as children and adolescents.

We know that video games played online (whether in teams or individually) are more addictive than those played offline. This is especially true for role-playing games and first-person shooters.

In video games where an avatar is created (a doll that represents the player in the game and has physical qualities that can be modified to identify with the game's protagonists), "living" the life of this avatar can be, for many teenagers, a more exciting way to live their own lives and escape from monotony and personal dissatisfaction.

Furthermore, many video games incorporate elements related to gambling, such as the purchase of loot boxes or surprise packs with real money, which can increase the likelihood of obtaining better players or improved weapon attributes. These games have a greater potential for addiction.

Some characteristics of video games that make them especially addictive are:

• Socialization: it allows us to feel connected and interact with other players. "I know a lot of people, I have a lot of friends."
• Exploratory activities: allow you to explore game events and new roles. "It allows me to experiment, experience adventures, and feel like another character."
• Achieving status: allows for increased recognition, prestige, and power within the virtual world. "I'm good, I feel good."
• Dissociation from real life: gaming time displaces time spent on positive aspects (e.g., other hobbies or relationships in the real world) and negative aspects (e.g., interpersonal conflicts, real-life worries) . "When I play, I forget about obligations and worries."