This course aims at examining players’ and developers’ participation in game-related social activities that take place outside the formal play space. Computers games are interactive platforms requiring participants (players) who make game worlds come to life. Unlike a medium like television, a game does not requires some player input in order to unfold its structure and its content. This puts players in a unique position—as productive, learning, and collaborative users—which lends equity and opportunities to those who would take the time to improve these gaming environments.

Examples of activities examined in this course include modding, writing, moderating, organizing, practicing, competing, and socializing. The metagame, or gaming activities beyond the formal playspace, is not simply a sandbox for players. Game developers are also growing accustomed to consider the play communities—providing tools to and working with talented players—when they design their games. Especially with the popularization of new media, game designers cannot overlook the need to design for this expansive environments.

Students will read papers discussing relevant topics on various social and design features making up the metagame. Students will also be analyzing a specific metagame, e.g., an online forum or an electronic sport tournament, and write a report on their findings.