I really like this post on 2old2game.com, written by a mum who has played videogames with her son for several years. It's about how sharing the likes of Super Mario 64, Luigi's Mansion and Halo has brought the two closer together, and allowed the parent to understand the child.

"I shared in the excitement when after 20 grueling tries he would finally beat a level or boss and I would bask in the hugs, kisses and pride when I beat a level or boss he could not defeat. And yes I even spent late nights while he slept looking for hints and walk-throughs."

It's a little bit schmaltzy, and I'm not sure many gamers would be happy inviting their mothers to games nights, but it says important things about understanding and engaging in game culture. If the alternative is slumping in front of the TV with your kids watching soap operas then gaming has to be the better choice.

So, gaming parents out there - do you share games with your kids? If so, what titles, and how do you govern their gaming time? Do you swot up at Gamefaqs while they're asleep? Is that wrong?