Is it still OK to shoot computer game characters?

I like to play first-person shoot-um-ups. What better way to release tensions caused by living in the modern world?

However now that a Japanese woman has been jailed for virtually killing her husband, I am reluctant to engage in violent behaviour towards others in computer games, even the NPCs (Non-Player Characters.)

I haven't so much as starved a Sim in the last few days.

Are there any better ways to relieve stress and homicidal impulses?