Videogames as Art, Culture, and Medium

Videogames have become one of the world's most important entertainment forms, exerting broad influence economically, aesthetically, culturally, and socially. This course explores the medium of the videogame in its multiple facets and offers an introduction to the academic subfield of game studies. We will read about game history, design, and cultural criticism, as well as play an array of games to gain a better understanding of how this medium matters. Prior background in gaming is not required. (FMMC 0101 or FMMC 0104 or by approval) 3 hrs. sem./lab