Introduction
Video games and movies are two of the most popular forms of entertainment today. But as Muslims, we must ask: Are video games more Haram than movies?
Islam does not completely forbid entertainment, but it sets clear rules to ensure that what we engage in does not harm our faith, morality, or time.
This article will compare video games and movies based on Islamic principles and determine which one is worse (if either) from an Islamic perspective.
Islamic Guidelines for Entertainment
Before comparing video games and movies, we must understand the Islamic rules for entertainment.
Entertainment must:
✅ Be free from sin and indecency
✅ Not distract from worship and responsibilities
✅ Promote good morals and values
Allah says in the Quran:
“And do not follow that of which you have no knowledge. Indeed, the hearing, the sight, and the heart – about all those [one] will be questioned.”
(Surah Al-Isra 17:36, Source)
Since both video games and movies involve hearing, seeing, and thinking, they must be analyzed carefully to determine whether they align with Islamic teachings.
Video Games vs. Movies: A Comparison in Light of Islam
1. Nudity, Immodesty, and Indecency
Both video games and movies often include immodest content, which Islam strictly forbids.
Movies
❌ Many movies contain revealing outfits, romance, and intimacy
❌ Romantic and intimate scenes are normalized
❌ Bad language and indecent jokes are common
Video Games
❌ Some games include immodest female characters
❌ Certain story-driven games have romantic content
❌ Multiplayer games can expose players to bad language
✅ Islamic Perspective:
Islam commands both men and women to lower their gaze and maintain modesty.
Allah says:
“Tell the believing men to lower their gaze and guard their chastity…”
(Surah An-Nur 24:30, Source)
Since movies show explicit content more often than video games, movies are worse in this aspect.
2. Music and Haram Sounds
Islamic scholars differ on music, but many believe musical instruments are Haram.
Movies
❌ Almost every movie has background music
❌ Songs and dance sequences promote sin
❌ Music influences emotions and thoughts
Video Games
❌ Most video games have background music
❌ Certain games have theme songs and emotional soundtracks
✅ Some games allow music to be muted
✅ Islamic Perspective:
The Prophet ﷺ said:
“There will be people from my nation who will regard as lawful… musical instruments.” (Bukhari)
Since video games allow muting music, movies are worse in this aspect.
3. Violence and Aggression
Violence is a common issue in both movies and video games.
Movies
❌ Action and war films show intense violence
❌ Crime movies glorify gang culture
❌ Horror movies promote fear and supernatural elements
Video Games
❌ Many popular games are violent (shooting, fighting, war games, etc.)
❌ Online gaming can increase aggression and anger
❌ Some games glorify crime and killing
✅ Islamic Perspective:
The Prophet ﷺ said:
“A Muslim is the one from whose tongue and hand the people are safe.” (Bukhari)
Since video games involve active participation in violence, video games are worse in this aspect.
4. Wasting Time and Addiction
Islam teaches that time is one of the greatest blessings.
Movies
❌ Movies last 1-3 hours but can lead to binge-watching
❌ Streaming platforms encourage continuous watching
❌ Some people waste entire weekends watching movies
Video Games
❌ Games can last for hours or even days
❌ Online multiplayer games can become highly addictive
❌ Gaming addiction can lead to neglect of Salah, Quran, and responsibilities
✅ Islamic Perspective:
The Prophet ﷺ said:
“There are two blessings which many people waste: health and free time.” (Bukhari)
Since video games are more addictive and time-consuming, video games are worse in this aspect.
5. Haram Relationships and Free Mixing
Islam strictly forbids unlawful relationships and unnecessary interaction with the opposite gender.
Movies
❌ Romantic relationships and love stories are common
❌ Most movies promote dating and Zina (fornication)
❌ Western movies normalize casual relationships
Video Games
❌ Online multiplayer games allow chatting with strangers
❌ Some games encourage interaction with opposite-gender characters
✅ However, many games do not include romance at all
✅ Islamic Perspective:
Allah says:
“And do not approach unlawful sexual intercourse. Indeed, it is an outrage and an evil way.”
(Surah Al-Isra 17:32, Source)
Since movies focus more on Haram relationships than video games, movies are worse in this aspect.
Final Verdict: Are Video Games More Haram Than Movies?
| Category | Movies | Video Games | Which One Is Worse? |
|---|---|---|---|
| Nudity & Immodesty | ❌ Very High | ❌ Medium | Movies |
| Music & Songs | ❌ Very High | ❌ Medium | Movies |
| Violence & Aggression | ❌ High | ❌ Very High | Video Games |
| Time Wasting & Addiction | ❌ High | ❌ Very High | Video Games |
| Haram Relationships | ❌ Very High | ❌ Low | Movies |
Since both video games and movies contain major Haram elements, neither is truly ethical in Islam.
However, video games are worse in terms of:
✔️ Promoting aggression and violence
✔️ Causing addiction and wasting time
Movies are worse in terms of:
✔️ Nudity, romance, and immodesty
✔️ Haram relationships and music
Which One Is More Haram?
➡️ Movies are more harmful to Imaan because they promote romance, nudity, and music.
➡️ Video games are more harmful to time and behavior because they cause addiction and aggression.
The best Islamic approach is to avoid both when they contain Haram elements and choose Halal alternatives like:
✅ Islamic documentaries
✅ Educational games and puzzles
✅ Outdoor activities and physical sports
Final Advice: If a game or movie takes you away from Allah, distracts you from Salah, or promotes Haram, it is better to avoid it completely.
May Allah guide us to use our time wisely and protect our Imaan, Ameen.
Also Check:
• What Type of Movies Can Muslims Watch?
• Why Do Some Scholars Say Watching Movies is Haram?
