Lecture 7 Summary

In today's lecture we were given an academic view of video games. There are various types of video games including arcade, consoles, computer, MUDs and MMOGS. Most people are exposed to arcade, console and computer games.

The medium of video games come from a range of disciplines for instance Narratology in which games focus on more on the storyline while in contrast Ludology focuses on the game and play elements of the game. An example of Narratology video games would be like the Final Fantasy series whereas Ludology would be like Counterstrike.
Though primarily video games were used for entertainment today some games allows the player to escape reality and invites them to live in a virtual world, a great example of this is the World of Warcraft phenomena. The interaction the users are able to have with the game characters creates a sort of obscure bond, that some people are not able to experience through social contact with humans, and the environment creates a backdrop for an unrealistic world filled with mystery and danger which can be tempting if your life is boring and monotonous.

On a final note games can be a great source of entertainment if it is indulged on occasions. But if it becomes part of who you are then lines should be drawn.