( I got this photo off the net)I've noticed a few articles in the newspaper as of late that have caught my attention.
The first was regarding a motorcycle riding Sikh who was handed a ticket in 2005 for riding sans helmet. He tried to fight the provincial helmet law on the grounds that his religion compels him to wear a turban. He had the Ontario Human Rights Commission behind him, however he lost his case in court last week. This brings up a good question, should religious beliefs override safety.......or should safety override religious beliefs?? In other provinces such as Manitoba and British Columbia, Sikhs are exempt from the provincial helmet laws.
The 2nd article had to do with a worldwide professional video-gaming league. Am I the only person on the face of the earth who had not heard of such a thing??? The players can earn a monthly salary as well as mucho moolah from tournaments. Only 180 video gamers worldwide are given positions on 18 international teams. It's taking gaming to the next level and they want it recognized as a professional sport.
My friend and I were watching the news clip with perplexed looks; I just find the whole thing a little bit odd is all. Anyone else with me on this one or do I stand alone?? When I think of video games I have memories of Mario and Luigi breaking blocks and saving the princess, not 180 prepubescent youth holed up for 40 hours a week practicing to win a million dollars. Okay okay I'm sure there are some older more mature players as well and I'm sure there is talent and skill involved, much like anything else in life...I just find it a bit bizarre. What are your thoughts on gaming becoming a professional sport?
17 comments:
Professional video gaming are for pathetic losers who can't get laid. But I shouldn't knock it. It's what I do for a living.
I saw that Sikh story too and was interested. I think that public safety should supersede Religious beliefs. And hey, let's face it, the Human Rights Commission supports a lot of crazy stuff.
We had a similar case here regarding a Sikh who would not remove his turban in the airport for a search or something. I think he won. That's a tough issue for sure.
As far as the gaming thing. I have 3 words for them "get a life!" haha
WIGSF, what do you do for a living? You play video games??
Scott, he is appealing the verdict so there should be more news to come.
Jlee, I agree that it is a tough issue and am glad that i'm not the one making that decision LOL.
There is a huge online gaming subculture and it involves money. Starting with online poker, which is now supposedly illegal in the states, there is a wide array of games you can play online. People actually meet other people online playing games and I read a news story about how a couple got married in the gaming world and then in real life after they met at some level of some game. The Southpark episode where all the boys are playing a video game and getting killed by a rogue character is one of my favorites.
I compete in that league.
I find the Sikh issue fascinating. First off I believe if he wants his skull split open on the highway to be my guest. Seriously laws protecting adults from themselves are generally stupid and now it's infringing upon a "religious right."
What's funny is that this guy feels that the government needs to accomodate his religious ideology and sky fairy worship when he has made no accomodation to them. Like say drive a car or obey the law.
Yrautca, interesting though I suppose one can meet a mate anywhere. At least they know they have something in common lol
WIGSF, that's your job to play in the league?
Wiwille, I agree that saftey comes first but I wonder why the other provinces feel it's ok.
I was going to write a comment, but then it got crazy long, so I blogged about this too:
http://imnotbitterbut.blogspot.com/2008/03/ash-just-put-up-blog-about-this.html
As for professional gamers, if any sport is popular and lucrative enough,people will play professionally.
Wait, did I call gaming a sport? Umm I guess if billiards or bowling are sports... then it's a sport too?
I tend to think that if you don't get a good pit-stain inducing drippy sweat going while you're doing it, then it's not a sport.
You liked Trekkies, right? Well, I have another documentary for you then - The King of Kong (a pocket full of quarters). It's about the quest to get the highest score at Donkey Kong. Frightening and funny and enlightening about the gaming world.
very interesting predicament with the helmet question. as far as the gaming one, i think it is ridiculous for there to be this league. Just more excuse to stay in your parents basement and never see the sun, and breath fresh air.
I had no idea you could make that much money gaming. Like you, I remember Mario very well, and I'll add Zelda alongside that one.
My brother actually bought an old-school Nintendo on Ebay recently and is gearing up to try Super Mario again. I might join him for a session, however, turning professional seems semi-ridiculous.
Jennifer, i'll check it out and I get that there is skill involved blah blah but a sport??
SS I loved Trekkies! I'll definately have to check out the documentary you mentioned, it sounds like it would be interesting.
Vivavoom, see that's what I don't get...wouldn't you rather be outside doing something. I mean yeah people practice the piano etc but I just don't see it as a sport.
2DP, I still have the old school nintendo. I haven't played in years, perhaps i'll dust it off this weekend. Though I recall the games not playing so well anymore, having to blow into the machine etc. Pain in the ass if you ask me.
Nah, I'm just pulling your leg.
Interesting stories. My favourite game is probably still tetris (old school!), so the second one's a little lost on me!
Cxx
Why can't you wear a big helmet over your turban?
Video games are fun for a half an hour or so, if you play for hours on end then you are a loser.
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