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Even in War, Ukrainian Soldiers Find Time for World of Tanks Video Game

In the midst of the war in Ukraine, soldiers are finding solace and distraction in the popular video game, World of Tanks. Many soldiers, including war hero Lt. Nazar Vernyhora, admit to playing the game during their free time. Some units have been caught playing the game during training or even slapping the game’s logo on their tanks. The prevalence of Starlink satellite internet and smartphones on the battlefield allows soldiers to easily access the game. The appeal of World of Tanks lies in its ability to provide a break from the boredom and monotony of war, allowing soldiers to disassociate from the violence around them. Despite the brutal reality of the war, soldiers find enjoyment in virtually experiencing tank battles and destroying enemy tanks. It is unclear how popular the game is among soldiers in Ukraine, but discussions with soldiers indicate that it is a favorite pastime. However, not all soldiers view violent video games in the same way. Some soldiers choose to play less violent games like FIFA instead. World of Tanks is available on various platforms, including PCs, Xbox, PlayStation, Nintendo, and Mac computers. The game is popular among e-sports enthusiasts and has a dedicated player base in Russia and Ukraine. The popularity of World of Tanks decreased after the invasion of Ukraine in 2022, as it was associated with a pro-Russian company. However, wounded soldiers recovering away from the front have turned to violent games like PUBG, Counter-Strike, and World of Tanks as a way to relax and bond with their friends. Soldiers who play World of Tanks view it as an opportunity to develop teamwork skills and tactics, which they can apply in real-life combat situations. While the game provides an escape for soldiers, they acknowledge that their real strategy in war is focused on survival rather than virtual tank battles.