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Showing posts from December, 2024

Horizon Forbidden West: Language and Representation

Horizon Forbidden West: Language and Representation Language Introduction Read this review of Horizon Forbidden West in the Financial Times (should be non-paywalled but you can read the text of article here if needed ). Answer the following questions: 1) Why does Guerrilla Games have 'a serious case of bad timing'? The release of Horizon Forbidden West coincided with Elden Ring, a game that overshadowed it in terms of cultural buzz and reception, despite both being strong entries in their genres​. 2) What is the narrative for the original game Horizon Zero Dawn? The original game follows Aloy, a young hunter, as she uncovers the mysteries of a post-apocalyptic Earth dominated by robotic creatures. She discovers the truth about humanity's downfall and her role in stopping another potential catastrophe​. 3) How is the central character Aloy described? Aloy is portrayed as a resourceful and determined protagonist who takes on the responsibility of saving her world. She is dep...

Women in Videogames + feminist theories

Women in Videogames + feminist theories Part 1: Background reading on Gamergate Read this Guardian article on Gamergate 10 years on . Answer the following questions: 1) What was Gamergate? Gamergate was a major online harassment campaign in 2014 targeting women and marginalized groups in the gaming industry. It began under the guise of concerns about "ethics in gaming journalism" but evolved into coordinated attacks on individuals, especially female game developers, journalists, and critics. The movement symbolised broader cultural battles about inclusion, diversity, and progressivism in gaming. 2) What is the recent controversy surrounding narrative design studio Sweet Baby Inc? Sweet Baby Inc., a narrative design studio, has faced backlash from a faction of gamers accusing it of "forcing diversity" in video games. Critics claim the studio secretly alters characters to conform to a so-called "woke" agenda. This harassment, fueled by conspiracy theories an...

The Sims FreePlay - Audience and Industries

The Sims FreePlay CSP - Audience and Industries Audience Read this App Store description and the customer reviews for The Sims FreePlay and answer the following questions: 1) What game information is provided on this page? Pick out three elements you think are important in terms of making the game appeal to an audience. Life simulation: Players control and create Sims’ lives. Customization: Build homes, design characters, and create stories. Updates: Seasonal events and new content keep the game engaging 2) How does the game information on this page reflect the strong element of participatory culture in The Sims? It highlights personalisation, live events, and updates shaped by community feedback, fostering creativity and collaboration with players. 3) Read a few of the user reviews. What do they suggest about the audience pleasures of the game? Players enjoy creative freedom, immersive gameplay, and frequent updates, though some criticize in-app purchases Participatory culture Read t...

The Sims FreePlay - Language & Representations

The Sims FreePlay CSP - Language & Representations blog tasks Create a new blogpost called 'The Sims FreePlay CSP - Language & Representations' and complete the following tasks. Language / Gameplay analysis Watch The Sims: FreePlay trailer and answer the following questions: 1) What elements of gameplay are shown? The trailer highlights house building, character customisation, and life simulation elements like relationships, careers, and daily activities. It emphasises events and seasonal updates, such as Halloween-themed content. 2) What audience is the trailer targeting? The game primarily targets casual mobile gamers, appealing to those who enjoy simulation games and life customisation experiences. 3) What audience pleasures are suggested by the trailer? The trailer suggests creative freedom in designing homes and characters, engaging in social interactions, and participating in seasonal events. Now watch this walk-through of the beginning of The Sims FreePlay and an...