This module primarily explores questions of video game ontology
Linked modules
FILM1001 or FILM2006 or FILM1027 or FILM1020
Aims and Objectives
Learning Outcomes
Syllabus
This module will approach video games from three primary perspectives: media specificity and technology, narrative, and culture. The importance and interconnectedness of these strands will be addressed through a syllabus that will typically include:
- The history of gaming and consoles
- An introduction to ludomusicology
- Canonical games
- Technological determinants
- Narratology
- Immersion
- Reception
- Gamer identification
- Genre
- Videogame adaptations
Lecture elements will provide you with general knowledge and understanding of key concepts. Your independent research into secondary material will develop this further. Discussion in seminars will help you to develop your own ideas about a topic, to analyse a range of source material and to articulate a critical argument. Rather than screenings for this module, you will be expected to seek out an experience a range of different games from a variety of different periods and platforms. While paying attention to the differences between platforms in the creation and aesthetic development of games, this module will remain platform agnostic in terms of assessment.
Learning and Teaching
Teaching and learning methods
Teaching methods include
• Plenary session
• Seminars
• tutorials
Learning activities include
• group seminar discussions
• Independent study, viewing, gaming, and research