MILITARY RECRUITING: GAMING AND TEEN RECRUITMENT


By akirschbaum
Military recruiting to use video games. Soldiers competed in a video game tournament during 1st Signal Brigade Signal Week at Camp Humphreys, Republic of South Korea on April 19, 2023.

In the past few years, U.S. military recruiting has been a challenge, and it seems that technology could be the best solution. With the rise of video games, using it could be a solution to attract more recruits. In Memphis, Tennessee, outside the US Navy facility, uniformed personnel are concentrated on their screens while speaking to their headsets. Their desks are cluttered with computer towers and keyboards illuminated in red. Their new mission is to inspire teens at the other end of their screens. According to Lt. Aaron Jones, in 2019, they conducted an analysis focusing on the preferences of the next generation. They were able to find out that Twitch, Facebook Gaming, or YouTube is what young generations love to do. Read next: The 5 Best Military Video Games in 2024

The US Military's Quest for New Enlistments

Since 2018, US military recruitment has strengthened its strategy to focus on a gaming-centered approach to address its short enlistment. However, some Veterans oppose this idea as it is unconventional. One concern about this military recruiting strategy is that some gaming audiences are minors. But this move had a positive impact on some gamers.Katie K, a 12-year-old gamer, had envisioned a career in the military as an avenue to learn discipline and earn gratitude from others. Despite the young generation wanting to join, the military will consider the under-17 rule. While the military is expanding its presence in gaming, its impact on young minds might be profound. While they contested that these platforms provide an opportunity for meaningful conversations with young targets. Some still question whether this method of military recruiting could be a disconnection between real-life combat and gaming experience.

Leveraging Video Games for Effective Military Recruiting Strategies

Lt. Aaron Jones highlights that their esports team, Goats & Glory, comprises enlisted Sailors, is a success. In a report, the Navy annually allocates a 3-5% marketing budget for esports initiatives- equivalent to millions of dollars. These military recruiters date back to the early 1990s when the Army was victorious with their developed video game. Since then, the military has been collaborating with the gaming industry in efforts to use the platform for recruitment. They even host tournaments for well-known games like Valorant and Fortnite. Further, the Air Force launched an online "arcade" game featuring real-life skills used by airmen. However, they are still tight-lipped about whether this military recruiting is effective. As the argument continues, the question that needs enlightenment remains: Can online gaming relay the aim of military service, or does it risk the challenges and complexities of those who choose to serve?Suggested read: 5 Video Game Controllers Veterans Must Have in 2024

Ethical Considerations in Gaming-Based Recruitment Strategies

This gaming-based military recruiting approach raised concerns, primarily when the military engaged with minors. Some of whom are as young as 12. The intentional targeting of this age bracket sparks concerns about the impact of warfare on young minds. Army Veteran Jeremiah Knowles emphasized that there is a contrast between the video game setting and the real battlefield. Further, Veterans for Peace pointed out worries about influencing young minds with incomplete military views. Other members stress the need for transparency and awareness about military service. There were accusations of unethical practices, such as censoring questions about war crimes during Twitch streams, including fake giveaways. These accusations sparked debates about whether military recruiters should be allowed on the gaming platform which resulted in Representative Alexandra Ocasio-Cortez suggesting a ban on military recruiting on the said platform. The ethical aspect of US military recruitment using video games should be a balance between attracting recruits and engaging responsibly with its young targets. As gaming plays an essential role in recruitment efforts, ongoing discussion, and awareness are crucial to ensure young minds understand what they are signing up for. Read next: A Look Back at the SOCOM Game Franchise


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