The "Relaxing" Game of Torture: A Trojan Horse in Our Children’s Pockets

As parents, we often worry about how much time our children spend on screens. But today, I am sounding the alarm on something far more insidious: what is happening on those screens.

I recently came across a mobile game that left me baffled and deeply disturbed. It is titled "Kick the Buddy." The description—displayed proudly in the App Store—calls it a "fun relaxing game of torture."

Read that again. "Relaxing game of torture."

Since when did "torture" become a method of relaxation? Since when did we decide that the way to "unwind" is to beat, explode, and torment a helpless, smiling ragdoll? And most critically—why is this being marketed to our children, rated for ages 12+, and sitting comfortably on the charts as a top "Action" game?

The Normalization of Aggression

As a behavioral coach, I look at this not just as a game, but as a conditioning tool. The premise is simple: you have a "buddy"—a friend—and the objective is to hurt him. The more creative and violent you are in your destruction, the more you are rewarded.

What neural pathways are we carving in a young, developing brain when we reward them for cruelty? We are teaching them that:

1. Violence is a valid stress reliever. Instead of processing emotions, we teach them to lash out.

2. "Buddies" are punching bags. The very word "Buddy" implies friendship, trust, and safety. This game subverts that sacred bond, subtly suggesting that friends are receptacles for our rage.

3. Empathy is optional. The character often smiles or looks cute, yet the player is encouraged to destroy it. This disconnects the act of violence from the consequence of pain.

A Call for Vigilance, Not Just Observation

We often think that because a game looks "cartoonish," it is safe. This is the deception. These games infiltrate young minds under the guise of colorful graphics and "stress relief." But make no mistake: this is a training ground for desensitization.

If a child practices kicking their virtual "buddy" for hours to feel better, we should not be surprised when they lack the patience or empathy to treat their real-world friends with kindness.

The Power of Non-Support

The developers create these games because they sell. They profit from the dopamine hits our children get from digital destruction. But we, as the consumers and guardians, hold the ultimate power.

I urge every parent reading this:

• Audit your child's device today. Don't just look at the app icon; look at the gameplay. Read the descriptions.

• Have the hard conversation. If you find this game, delete it, and explain why. Tell them: "We do not find joy in hurting things, even digital things."

• Boycott the developers. Do not support studios that monetize the corruption of young minds.

Our vigilance is the only filter left. The App Stores will not protect your child's mind—that duty belongs to us. Let us not fail them.

Citizen KK

www.citizenkk.com