Why social games are so damn addictive (and why I'm not playing anymore!)

You have all seen them on Facebook and in your email. Invitations to join someone to beat down the thugs in Mafia Wars or to help then harvest their strawberries. I played Farmville for a short period and quickly realized that you can get your farm going faster if you enlist your friends to join. You fertilize my cotton, I'll feed your pigs.  Its the Huckleberry Finn approach to game playing.

The only problem is I began to feel guilty. One of my friends would fertilize my little patch of soil, and I would feel obligated to return the favor. If I didn't, I actually found myself thinking "oh my god, I forgot to log in and feed their chickens!" Its not like someone asked you to feed their dog when they were away and traveling. If you forget, there are real consequences there - but these damn games feed on those same guilts and feelings of social obligation.

Well, let it now be know. ....I will not harvest your grain, sprinkle manure on your pumpkins or feed your goats. (nor do I expect you to assist me in the same).  I will sleep better at night....

If you need me, I'll be over here playing Tetris.