Gamers: Hobby Enthusiasts or Trained for War?

Is it really so far-fetched to consider today's videogames and their highly realistic nature as military training tools? Games like Call of Duty 4: Modern Warfare and the Ace Combat series feature highly realistic environments, complex controls and engaging real-world scenarios. And let's not forget America's Army, a shooter that's openly sponsored by the army and used as a training and recruiting tool. Can years of playing videogames desensitize you while at the same time train you for military use?

[italianbreadman]

What's also somewhat troubling is the way the Army pushes their free game as a way to influence adolescents in the direction of the armed services.