Is it permissible to play video games that contain religious symbols such as the cross or characters like sorcerers, taking into consideration that "actions are judged by intentions" and that such games may contribute to staying away from vices?

The relied-upon fatwa (definition) is the permissibility of playing electronic games, as long as they do not contain شرعية محاذير (Sharia (definition) prohibitions) such as glorifying the cross, or symbols of disbelief, or music, or images of naked women, and the like. It is not possible to rule on specific games without examining them. One should utilize their time in what benefits them in their religion and worldly life, for "The feet of a servant will not move on the Day of Judgment until he is asked about his life and how he spent it." It is not true that the only choice is between forbidden games or sins worse than them, as there are permissible means of entertainment. It must be known that a good intention does not legitimize an evil deed.