This literature review by Kuss and Griffiths (2012) examines the phenomenon of Internet gaming addiction, drawing on 58 empirical studies published after 2000. The review aims to categorize these studies into a comprehensive framework, addressing the complex and extensive nature of the topic. The review identifies three main categories: etiology, pathology, and ramifications of Internet gaming addiction. **Etiology** involves risk factors such as personality traits, motivations for playing, and structural game characteristics. Personality traits like introversion, neuroticism, and impulsivity are linked to addiction. Motivations for playing, including coping with negative emotions and socialization, are also significant. Structural game characteristics, such as reinforcement and adult content, can make games more addictive. **Pathophysiology** explores the physiological aspects, showing that Internet gaming addiction is associated with neural processes similar to substance-related addictions. Studies using fMRI and other methods reveal increased activity in brain regions associated with addiction and reduced sleep and memory performance. **Ramifications** highlight the negative consequences of Internet gaming addiction, including psychosocial and psychosomatic problems, academic decline, and social isolation. Treatment options, particularly psychopharmacological interventions, show promise in reducing addiction symptoms and improving daily functioning. The review concludes that Internet gaming addiction is a behavioral addiction with similarities to substance-related addictions, emphasizing its pathological nature and the need for professional treatment. The findings also suggest that certain game genres and player characteristics may play a significant role in the development of addiction.This literature review by Kuss and Griffiths (2012) examines the phenomenon of Internet gaming addiction, drawing on 58 empirical studies published after 2000. The review aims to categorize these studies into a comprehensive framework, addressing the complex and extensive nature of the topic. The review identifies three main categories: etiology, pathology, and ramifications of Internet gaming addiction. **Etiology** involves risk factors such as personality traits, motivations for playing, and structural game characteristics. Personality traits like introversion, neuroticism, and impulsivity are linked to addiction. Motivations for playing, including coping with negative emotions and socialization, are also significant. Structural game characteristics, such as reinforcement and adult content, can make games more addictive. **Pathophysiology** explores the physiological aspects, showing that Internet gaming addiction is associated with neural processes similar to substance-related addictions. Studies using fMRI and other methods reveal increased activity in brain regions associated with addiction and reduced sleep and memory performance. **Ramifications** highlight the negative consequences of Internet gaming addiction, including psychosocial and psychosomatic problems, academic decline, and social isolation. Treatment options, particularly psychopharmacological interventions, show promise in reducing addiction symptoms and improving daily functioning. The review concludes that Internet gaming addiction is a behavioral addiction with similarities to substance-related addictions, emphasizing its pathological nature and the need for professional treatment. The findings also suggest that certain game genres and player characteristics may play a significant role in the development of addiction.