BBC Radio 1 Newsbeat are reporting on today’s release of the new World of Warcraft update, The Wrath of the Lich King.
“World of Warcraft makes more money than the biggest Hollywood blockbusters every single month, has 11 million players and controls two thirds of the online gaming market, so when an expanded version was released, fans turn up in droves to be the first to get their hands on it.”
There’s a nice bit about the addictive nature of this fantasy world. “More than 3,000 people have joined an online support group called Warcraft Widows for relatives of addicted gamers.
“My wife started playing in 2007,” according to one post. “She plays 12-18 hours a day and ignores all other life.
“She refuses to answer the phone. She refuses to return emails. I am destroyed by a video game and have no idea how to proceed.”
“That kind of dedication has helped make World of Warcraft one of the biggest money-spinners in gaming history.”
They haven’t picked up on the game’s nickname, World of Warcrack. I’m quite good – my copy of the Lich King isn’t due to arrive until the weekend, ensuring I actually get some work done this week!
BBC Newsbeat article.
