Pixel-On-Pixel Violence

I think violent video games are great. Some people blame them for the downfall of society, school shootings, and all kinda of other things. I find them a great way to relieve stress and release pent up aggression. The fact that I can punch, kick, shoot, hack and slash fake 'in'human beings and monsters fills me with glee. It does NOT give me a desire to do these things to real humans in real life. But, if the monsters were to attack in real life, I hope that you all will call me first! The reason games are so fun is because they transport you to a world, or put you into a role (or both) that is not real so you can do things that you could never do in real life. In case you're wondering, that's the appeal!
Now, I'm not saying that these kinds of games are for everyone of all ages. Definately not. They have ratings for a reason. But I have a hard time believing that people who kill people in real life were made that way by video games. I have been playing games like that for years, and I have never gotten a real urge to REALLY commit murder in REAL life. That would make me mentally unstable. That would mean that I need to seek professional help, not play less video games.
Maybe though, to be fair, what is the effect of violent video games on people who are mentally unstable to begin with? That may be a fai question. It seems to me that something in their brains is distorting reality, or failing to differentiate between reality and VIRTUAL reality.
Video games help me cope sometimes. They take me to worlds that I could never go to. They are just another form of storytelling; and just like any other kind of story, they are not for everyone of all ages. The same as movies, books, comics, and television shows, different age groups have different ones aimed at them. Kids should play games for kids. Adults should play the games aimed at them, but it's fun sometimes to play a kiddie game as an adult. We don't ALWAYS want shooting and fighting games.
I guess the bottom line of what I'm trying to say is video games are not just for kids anymore. In fact, it's almost becoming the opposite. The gamers of the old-school Nintendo days are all grown up today, and they still like to play video games. The gaming industry had to change to suit them, and it will continue to change as they continue to age, and as new generations come up. Happy gaming!!