The Impact of Narco-Culture Video Games on Mexican Youth

December 12, 2025 - 15:13

In violence-riddled Mexico, children as young as 13 are hooked on bloody video games that vividly recreate the horrors of the country's narco war. One such game, titled "Hell's Troop," is among dozens of war-like games available on online platforms like Roblox, which enables programming enthusiasts to design their own video games for others to play.

These games often depict graphic violence and criminal activities, immersing young players in a digital world that glorifies the drug trade. Critics argue that this form of entertainment desensitizes children to real-life violence and perpetuates a culture of fear and normalization of crime. The concern is not only about the content but also about the potential impact on the mental health and moral development of young players.

As the popularity of these games continues to rise, parents and educators are increasingly worried about the influence they have on impressionable minds. The challenge remains to find a balance between creative expression in gaming and the need to protect children from harmful narratives that could shape their worldview.