Zachary Stalcup
Staff Writer

“Skyrim” is not just another game. For some, it’s a lifestyle.

“The Elder Scrolls” video game series – an action-packed, role-playing game that allows gamers to battle dragons and other creatures in a mythical world – has outdone itself with the November release of its fifth title, “Skyrim.”

The newest game in the series has developed a cult following of devote players. But has it become too much?

“It’s not just a game, it’s a way of life,” said senior Drew Teutsch.

“Skyrim” has become an addiction. Players are sucked into it and play for countless hours. They miss school and branch off from friends to enter this mythological world.

Students should not take their “Skyrim” addiction lightly. According to this reporter’s findings, 100 percent of “Skyrim” players have played more than once in their lifetime.

“I’ve been in my room (playing Skyrim) for two months straight now,” said senior Lee Ackerman.

Added senior Cameron Speltz, “It’s a place where can go and unwind, and kill dragons.”

With already more than 5 million copies sold, the “Skyrim” addiction has spread globally, incapacitating gamers to the front of their TV screens and computer monitors.

“Before I got ‘Skyrim,’ I used to get things done,” said Speltz.

It is the sad truth for millions of “Skyrim” addicts. Thankfully some are seeking treatment.

“I used to play ‘Skyrim,’ but then I took an arrow to the knee,” said recovering “Skyrim” addict Ryan Howard, a senior.

Howard realized he needed recovery after reportedly playing 300-plus hours of “Skyrim.”

“I was spending more time in the College of Winterhold than I was at Cal High,” said Howard.

Others less fortunate than Howard, can’t beat their addiction.

“I am absolutely addicted,” said Speltz. “‘Skyrim’ means the world to me.”

Not only is it highly addictive, but it is lethal. According to a survey, most players are killed while playing “Skyrim.” Risk of another death is greatly increased after the first death.

“I wouldn’t be surprised if over 50 million people have died playing ‘Skyrim,’” Howard said. “In fact I’d be incredibly surprised if less people have died than that.”

Howard claims to have taken hundreds if not thousands of lives in the name of “Skyrim.” At this alarming rate world population will take a turn for the worst, plummeting to the lowest it’s been in centuries.

Friends and family of the addicted have tried to be supportive and spread the word of this dangerous game.

“I spend way less time with my friends,” said Teutsch, “I no longer have a social life.”

Added Speltez, “Social life? In ‘Skyrim?’

Many recovering addicts agree that Skyrim use should be monitored and controlled.