Week 8 : Are games a waste of time?"

Lecture:
Based on the lecture notes, it would seem the major theme of discussion is the different genres of gaming, and their effectiveness on the general public. The evolution of the video game, has probably been of of the greatest driving forces behind the development of the computer in general, on bot a hardware, and software level. Also the progress of the video game in terms of graphics, and sound technology, are the easiest things to keep track of, as they are very evident at a glance. However there has also been remarkable development in story, control, and genre over the years, that most non-gamers are not aware of. Also as discussed in last weeks readings, these games can also function as a training tool of the governments, and a tool of desensitization greater than films, as the user is ultimately responsible for what appears on then screen. This idea in itself however is also a fabrication, as the path the players will take, and choices they can make are already predetermined, by the developers who employ several advanced methods to give the player the illusion of choice, and discovery such as subtle hints to point them in the direction the developers want them to go.

Readings:
The readings expand on the ideas introduced by the film existenz, i.e. the confusion, and lack of distinction between real life, and in game decisions, and actions. Although it should go without saying that gamers can tell when they are not playing a game, their personalities do tend to shift while gaming. These aspects of their personalities, may eventually start to muddle, and mix with their everyday personalities, creating a sort of hybrid.

Tutorial:
I was absent for this tutorial.