Drawing on the paradigm of game studies, this course focuses on the methods, techniques, and vocabularies for analysis, interpretation and critical review of computer games, and the contexts and purposes in which these are used. Through lectures and hands-on exercises, involving analysis of computer games and secondary materials such as computer game reviews in the media, students will be provided with the skills and techniques to analyse computer games, the knowledge on which critical judgements and scholarly assertions can be based, and the vocabulary with which to express these. The games to be analysed range from mainstream AAA titles to contemporary independent art game projects. Upon completion of this course the students will be able to critically examine, evaluate and compare computer games, and, to situate a given computer game in the contexts of genre, history, aesthetics and technology and formulate their observations into an informed review. Students will also be able to identify and evaluate the categories and purposes of analysis and criticism itself (e.g. commercial product review, critique of an artwork, scholarly interpretation), and to partake in contemporary debates within the discourses of game analysis and criticism (e.g. concerning with the “gameness” of computer games). Teaching and learning activities are centred around lectures on the theories and methods of game analysis and criticism, supported by close-playing game analysis workshops during tutorials or as independent work.

Continuous Assessment: 100%