Blog Post #5

Wikipedia defines literature as works which are considered of superior or lasting artistic merit; it defines art as the expression or application of human creative skill and imagination. Video games embody all of these characteristics, thus making them both forms of literature and art. Many scholars argue over the differences that distinguish video games as separate media forms, but various real-life applications have presented their evidence otherwise. However, the term "video games" is very broad, so one could look at how different video games cover different questions we have about our interactions with these games. Video games over the years have changed exponentially, from the classic arcade games such as Pong and Pacman, to the current ultra-realistic, and even virtual reality games we play today. What started as a joystick and button has been revolutionized into an all immersive, in-game experience where we are now able to change into a virtual body.

Different game studies have been completed and experimented with in order to further understand the culture and logic behind video games. This research employs study through the social sciences, industry and engineering, and the humanities. Areas such as the players in the games, the design of the games, and the role games play in society are each examined in order to better comprehend how video games affect people.






One of the most controversial questions raised about video games is the effect they have on behavior, and more specifically, anger and aggression. For years, video game cynics often blamed certain video games for certain acts of violence. The real question that should be asked is why people relate video game violence with real-world violence in the first place. Games such as Call of Duty and other first person shooters that people often associate with violence, only produce spontaneous violence, lasting usually around 15 seconds (normally directed towards the noob who shot you). So if video games don't attack our daily emotions, then what effects do they have on us?

Furthermore, an article written by Drew Guarini titled, "9 Ways Video Games Can Actually Be Good For You" outlines specific examples of video games which have had a positive impact on people. For example, expert action gamers who play "Call of Duty" have a higher contrast sensitivity function, which allows them to notice subtle changes in the brightness of an image. This is applicable to those who drive at night because they can pick out bright patches of light much easier. The ability to apply video games into the real world is one of the biggest developments that is changing the way we understand and appreciate video games.