Games addiction isn't just something publishers want their games to foster; it can be a serious problem.

According to the London Free Press, one Canadian is so concerned by the problem that he is opening an addiction support group - a spin-off from operation Online Gamers Anonymous.

"It's high time this got the mainstream media attention that it deserves," offers founder Brad Dorrance.

"We’re not going to wait for the medical profession to recognize or put their stamp of approval on this addiction."

Dorrance is a former addict who hasn't played games for nearly a year - having lost 12 hours per day to the habit, resulting in his near suicide.

"I think people need to see how much damage can be done to a relationship by any addiction, even this one."

By Luke Guttridge