Great article, Shawn. I think you need to factor in that old saying that goes something like, "The converts are always the most zealous."

MMO burnout is normal and I think we've all reached it or are quickly reaching that point, especially if you're neglecting other aspects of your life (socializing, staying healthy, etc.). It's cliche, but it really is all about moderation.

What struck me about that article is the blogger seemed to be approaching quitting MMORPGs with the same fanatic zeal that he probably had as an MMORPG player. Shifting from one absolute extreme to the next probably isn't terribly healthy or the best way to handle situations either, IMHO.

Most MMORPG players can get pretty obsessive about their hobby (myself included). But a virtual life should never be someone's surrogate life, though it is fun to walk in your avatar's virtual shoes to blow off steam and escape during your leisure time. The thing is, it's VERY easy to veer down that road because the social elements of MMO interactions and guilds can serve as an easy surrogate for escape when things in your life may be less-than-perfect.

It sounds like it was a good thing for him to get out of gaming if there was that much negativity tied to it, but what could be more useful is gaining the personal tools to game healthily if its a hobby you enjoy, rather than declaring it the devil's work.

Okay enough from me--I have to turn off my phone, lock myself in the computer room, and play WAR for six hours.

= )