It's okay to play games to pass the time. OK for entertainment. Playing games increases intelligence. But the main thing is how long the game is playing. Kids or people of any age have no problem playing it for 30 minutes to 1 hour. If you cross it, you will get addicted. Everything is harmful, whether it is a virtual or artificial game. Everybody is brainwashing us when it comes to virtual games. Be practical, all games are useless except physical games.
Being a hardcore gamer doesn't automatically mean you are addicted. I know, I used to be one several years ago, but I still managed to get good grades and I was able to have a balanced life. It lasted one and a half a year for me, sure it's fun, but eventually you will get bored.