The Geometry Dash Crisis: Impact on CCES

CCES is experiencing a predicament akin to a zombie apocalypse. A significant number of pupils, particularly seniors, have been ensnared by a profound addiction Geometry Dash.

Geometry Dash is a game in which a player maneuvers a moving symbol, often a square, to avoid spikes and other obstacles until reaching the level's conclusion. The stages, adorned with pulsating lights, music, and vibrant neon hues, rapidly escalate in difficulty, heightening addiction. The game is rapid in tempo and exasperating upon a player's demise, however the triumph of completing a level is exceedingly gratifying.

One may identify a so-called "dasher" in a crowd by certain characteristics. They will own a horizontally oriented phone and would be always tapping on the screen. During "dashing," the addict forfeits their feeling of humanity, like a zombie. Upon closer inspection, one might see a certain absence in their eyes.

Exercise caution in the presence of these "dashers." If disrupted, they may retaliate with ferocity. Regardless of whether it manifests as verbal or physical abuse, the outcome is always detrimental. I saw Steele Riddle, an enthusiastic "dasher," by chance. He was on the verge of completing a level when I disrupted him, inciting his fury and resulting in an outpouring of profanities directed at me. Reeves Dobson, a senior at CCES, is recognized for his debilitating addiction to Geometry Dash. Reeves is a severe addict. Reeves averages 4 hours and 17 minutes of screen usage daily. He has degenerated and severed links with his family and friends.

The discussion with Hutch Paddock, a lifelong friend of Reeves, became emotional. He began to weep, clearly demonstrating the extent of his emotional distress. Hutch expresses, “Frequently, I desire to spend time with him, yet he is perpetually engaged with his phone.” He is an entirely distinct individual. I want the return of the Reeves I once knew. I really miss him. He elaborated on the severity of his addiction. “He consistently attempts this particular level that he is unable to conquer.” He has made more than 6,000 tries at it. Those represent 6000 discussions we might have engaged in. I needed to momentarily withdraw and regain my composure throughout the interview because of its emotional intensity. In response to inquiries on the feelings elicited by Reeves' addiction, Hutch said, "It renders me feeling insignificant and diminutive." It seems as if I am invisible to him. 

Obtaining concise responses from Reeves proved to be quite challenging. He seemed disheveled and bewildered. This was really difficult for me to do and see the significant decline in his health and looks. Geometry Dash has not just impacted Reeves' life; other others have been influenced as well. The game adversely impacts pupils' academic performance, deteriorates their relationships with family and friends, and finally transforms them into automatons.

This game has a greater malevolence than is apparent. If immediate action is not taken, every student at CCES will become a brainwashed, phone-obsessed, drooling, lifeless zombie. Reeves, you have an issue; please hang up the phone. Both I and several others are really concerned about you. Reeves was almost unrecognizable upon our encounter. He was very challenging and often used his phone to text throughout the interview. He would enter a nonverbal condition for many minutes while running, necessitating my tolerance.