A Pakistani teenager addicted to the popular mobile game PlayerUnknown’s Battlegrounds (PUBG) has been sentenced to 100 years in prison after brutally killing his entire family following a game loss. The shocking case has reignited concerns over gaming addiction and its potential psychological effects on young players.
Teen Lost Temper After Scolding from His Mother
The tragedy took place three years ago in Lahore, when Zain Ali, then only 14 years old, spent hours playing PUBG and became increasingly aggressive whenever he lost. According to reports by The Independent, his addiction led him to isolate himself in his room for long periods, showing violent outbursts when unable to achieve his gaming goals.
On the day of the incident, after suffering repeated defeats in the game and being scolded by his mother for his behaviour, the teenager lost control. In a fit of rage, he retrieved his mother’s legally owned handgun and opened fire while his family members were asleep. The horrifying attack killed his 45-year-old mother, 20-year-old brother, and two younger sisters aged 15 and 10.
Court Highlights the Dangers of Gaming Addiction
During sentencing on 24 September, Judge Riaz Ahmed described the case as a chilling example of how gaming addiction can destroy family relationships and override basic moral values. However, since the offender was a minor at the time of the murders, the court decided against imposing the death penalty. Instead, Zain Ali received four counts of murder, with each count carrying a 25-year prison term — a total of 100 years behind bars.
Psychologists Warn of Deeper Mental Health Issues
Clinical psychologist Dr Muhammad Ali Khan told local media that the boy likely suffered from serious psychological conditions, including impulse control disorder, anger management issues, depression, or bipolar disorder. He stressed that such extreme behaviour often stems from untreated mental health problems exacerbated by excessive gaming and lack of emotional support.
The tragic case has triggered widespread discussion in Pakistan and across Asia about the dangers of online gaming addiction among youths. Experts have urged parents to monitor their children’s gaming habits closely, ensure they maintain social connections, and seek professional help if signs of obsession or aggression appear.
In recent years, countries like India and Nepal have even imposed temporary bans on PUBG after multiple violent incidents involving young players. The Lahore case serves as a grim reminder that uncontrolled gaming addiction can have devastating real-world consequences — far beyond the virtual battlefield.