This book, to which I contributed a chapter (on Europa Universalis), is now out; the editor is Drew Davidson of Carnegie Mellon.
- "What makes a game good? or bad? or better?
"Video games can be 'well played' in two senses. On the one hand, well played is to games as well read is to books. On the other hand, well played as in well done.
"This book is full of in-depth close readings of video games that parse out the various meanings to be found in the experience of playing a game. 22 contributors (developers, scholars, reviewers and bloggers) look at video games through both senses of 'well played.'
"The goal is to help develop and define a literacy of games as well as a sense of their value as an experience. Video games are a complex medium that merits careful interpretation and insightful analysis."
You can read it:
- on the Web
- As a free plain text download; or
- By buying a print copy
EU
I read your chapter on Europa Universalis, and found it fascinating. I love EU games for their complexity. I don't mind getting lost in a game for hours while I try to figure it out, though obviously I prefer games that slowly introduce layers of complexity to the player.
Although I would never think of myself as a typical gamer, I thought that EU II was the best game in the series. It feels like a more tight game, a game that offers substantial freedom but also some "rails" to guide new players. These rails also helped to differentiate each nation's playstyles from one another. Unfortunately, I found myself poring over the events files to find some of these rails (How else would you think to take over Alexandria as the Ottomans in that short window of opportunity). In some respect, Europa Universalis is one of the few game franchises that dumps you right into the action and expects you to learn through trial and error.
I'm looking forward to reading the rest of the book.
EDIT: I should add that my interest in European History stems entirely from this game. I once had a lengthy discussion with a family friend about the Dutch Revolutions and the history of the Netherlands, based almost entirely on my experiences playing the game.
Shadow
Nick´s essay makes me really want to replay Shadow of the Collosus.
Their new one looks pretty good too.
Errata
Where do I post about bugs in the book?
There's an extra "realize" in the Ico writeup.
Re: Errata
Maybe here: http://www.etc.cmu.edu/etcpress/contact
Good book!
Thanks. Otherwise, quite an interesting read, and I'm yet to get to your part.
Pretty cool stuff. I'd be
Pretty cool stuff. I'd be willing to contribute a bit on LoZ Link's Awakening or Super Mario 64 for a future installment, if there's any interest for them.