I know nothing about this subculture of our society, but apparently videogamers are all atwitter about this week’s release of Grand Theft Auto IV, which allows players to electronically live out fantasies about stealing cars, running drugs, street racing and other unsavory acts.

Analysts have predicted the new game, priced at $59.99, is expected to surpass $300 million in first-week sales.

Here’s my question: With all the crime we’ve got in the Memphis area, why would anyone shell out $59.99 for a videogame version of something they could see on the streets for free every day?