This course provides students with a thorough understanding of the history, study, of the modern video game industry and video games as a creative and communicative medium. Subjects covered in this course include the history of the industry in terms of its technological and economic development. Students will also analyze how video games have evolved and used more powerful multimedia capabilities to craft narratives and virtual worlds, and critically engage with game content to analyze games and break them down into component elements to understand what makes for good design. The course will also analyze the cultural and political impact of games from psychological effects to the debate over governmental regulation. The course will also provide students with the tools they need to succeed in a variety of professions in the video game industry, from journalism to development to public relations and beyond.
P: sophomore standing
Fall Only.