BMS433H1

Video Games and Culture

From early mainframe computers to arcades, home video game consoles, mobile devices, VR, and beyond, digital games have become increasingly central within contemporary culture. Why do we make and play games? How do games produce experiences, make meaning, and reflect or refract ideology, and what impact do they have on players? Who gets to make, play, and find representation in games, and who is left out? What role do games play in the contemporary media ecosystem? Through scholarly research and interactive examples, this seminar-style class will explore digital games and culture from a variety of critical perspectives, including history, industry, technology, culture, politics, and aesthetics. No previous experience or expertise with video games is required.