Semester(s) Offered: Fall
Credits: 4
Course Call Number: GAMES-GT 110
Prerequisite(s): None
Taught By: Clara Fernández-Vara

This is an introduction to critical and analytical approaches to the subject of games, both digital and non-digital. The field of game studies emerged as a field of serious study thanks to the growing interest on digital games, though the studies of games as culture have taken place for many decades. This class introduces students to the theories that tackle games as a socio-cultural activity and expression, and poses questions such as: What are the definitions of games and who defines them? How do games define social activities? Who plays video games, when and why?

Upon completion of this course, the student will be able to:
1) Understand and discuss games from a theoretical perspective.
2) Assess and discuss game concepts and the use of games in various contexts.
3) Develop a deeper understanding of the history of game studies.
4) Apply new theories and evaluate them critically.
5) Analyze games by understanding and applying a variety of analytical methods.
6) Connect theoretical concepts to game design practice.