I’ve said many of the same things as a tabletop game developer. That’s where the real action is, because it’s no longer the story a creator envisioned, but what the group of gamers and game masters envision!
Very interesting article. Like you say, we study both film and literature without expectations those studying it will become authors or filmmakers themselves. I think game studies will become just as important in the future
Some may still think that, but you're right that we separate creative writing and literature. We're doing similar in our “videogaming and esports studies” programs (the one I teach for has a three-part focus: development, industry, and studies).
Even if people don't become writers or reviewers, I think we're better when we think harder about what we engage with
Yes I agree. People say video games have a problem that means it can't be treated as art - partially due to the amount of slop that is available. But film also has slop - look at any daytime TV. I doubt anyone is discussing the local news on their film course. Literature too has magazines and slop as well. Each area of art has its own internal distinctions, but video games are too often grouped as one by other disciplines
...and then one realizes these are not the only reasons :D
A main one for me is that games have this way of bringing us closer, you know? They’re not just fun; they’re like a training ground for life skills. I am loving to play with my Junior... and when he gets stuck on a puzzle, I see him learning patience. When he cheers me on, it’s empathy in action. When we finally beat that tough level, it’s all about resilience. And... it's even more than just skills. It’s about us! Every laugh, every “Aha!” moment, every challenge passes... these are memories we’re building together. And that’s one reason I love them so much and what makes them special for me.
I’ve said many of the same things as a tabletop game developer. That’s where the real action is, because it’s no longer the story a creator envisioned, but what the group of gamers and game masters envision!
Very interesting article. Like you say, we study both film and literature without expectations those studying it will become authors or filmmakers themselves. I think game studies will become just as important in the future
That's a great way to put it!
Some may still think that, but you're right that we separate creative writing and literature. We're doing similar in our “videogaming and esports studies” programs (the one I teach for has a three-part focus: development, industry, and studies).
Even if people don't become writers or reviewers, I think we're better when we think harder about what we engage with
Yes I agree. People say video games have a problem that means it can't be treated as art - partially due to the amount of slop that is available. But film also has slop - look at any daytime TV. I doubt anyone is discussing the local news on their film course. Literature too has magazines and slop as well. Each area of art has its own internal distinctions, but video games are too often grouped as one by other disciplines
Exactly! It's part of being a new form
Damn that’s a cool field to be in. Great write up!
Thanks! I'm gonna try to balance the academia stuff with more focused gaming stuff going forward 😅
...and then one realizes these are not the only reasons :D
A main one for me is that games have this way of bringing us closer, you know? They’re not just fun; they’re like a training ground for life skills. I am loving to play with my Junior... and when he gets stuck on a puzzle, I see him learning patience. When he cheers me on, it’s empathy in action. When we finally beat that tough level, it’s all about resilience. And... it's even more than just skills. It’s about us! Every laugh, every “Aha!” moment, every challenge passes... these are memories we’re building together. And that’s one reason I love them so much and what makes them special for me.
PS. very cool post. GJ & GL with the next one :D