A simple study break has the potential to turn into hours of staring at the television when homework needs to be completed.

"It is definitely a trap!" said freshman Justin Beatty, one of the many Wartburg students who owns a Nintendo 64 Entertainment System.

"You know that you have to do your homework, but you are determined to pass the last level or find the missing item or whatever it may be.

A simple 15-minute break turning into three hours of wasted time!"

He is not alone. Other Wartburg students are also affected by video games.

Around campus, many students are caught in the video game trap. The quest for the best score turns into hours of wasted time that could be spent doing homework or working out.

Freshman Brad Fasse said, "I have no social life because of video games."

"Video games are the work of the devil himself!" freshman Andy Pollock said.

They are not alone is their opinions. Students are drawn in by flashy graphics and complex story lines that keep their eyes glued to the screen.

Some students have discovered that time management is the key to playing video games. Students just need to place time constraints on their gaming.

"I don't think that video games are bad," said freshman Mark Kolpin.

"Just make sure to get your homework done on time, and you have as much time as you need for your playing enjoyment."