Students will write a short report that discusses their experiences playing a single game. This assignment will utilize theories discussed via in-class discussions as well as readings.
1. Assignment (1) One – Analytical Essay-1.pdfDownload Assignment (1) One – Analytical Essay-1.pdf
2. Game Analysis Guidelines.pdfDownload Game Analysis Guidelines.pdf
3. Concepts up Until Week 4.docx
Assignment Prompt: Analytical Essay on Gaming Experience
Assignment Title: Exploring Gaming Experiences through Analytical Discourse
Assignment Overview: In this analytical essay assignment, you will delve into your personal experiences playing a single video game of your choice. Drawing upon the theoretical concepts discussed during in-class lectures and the readings assigned throughout the course, you will critically analyze your gaming experience to gain deeper insights into the world of interactive digital media. This assignment will provide you with the opportunity to apply theoretical knowledge to practical gameplay, enhancing your understanding of how gaming relates to broader cultural, social, and psychological contexts. This assignment encourages you to bridge the gap between academic theory and practical gaming experiences.
Assignment Objectives:
To analyze your specific gaming experience in detail.
To apply relevant theoretical concepts from in-class discussions and course readings to the chosen game.
To critically evaluate the game’s impact on players and its broader cultural significance.
To enhance your academic writing, research, and analytical skills.
Assignment Instructions:
Game Selection:
Choose a single video game to serve as the primary focus of your analysis. The game can be from any platform (PC, console, mobile, etc.) and any genre, but it should be a game you have played extensively (or have at least familiarity with enough to write an assignment).
Ensure you play the game. I recommend taking notes and screenshots as you play to aid you in writing.
Theoretical Framework:
Identify and incorporate at least two theoretical concepts or frameworks discussed in class or covered in the course readings. Explain how these theories relate to your chosen game and its gameplay experience.
You may reference one theoretical framework from class and one from outside the course, if you wish.
Analytical Approach:
In your essay, analyze and dissect your gaming experience by addressing the following points:
Introduction to the game: Provide an overview of the selected game, including its title, genre, platform, and developer.
Gameplay experience: Describe your personal experiences while playing the game. Highlight significant moments, challenges, and interactions.
Application of theoretical concepts: Explain how the chosen theoretical concepts can be applied to your gaming experience. How do these theories help you better understand aspects of the game or your interactions with it?
Critical evaluation: Assess the game’s impact on players, potential cultural influences, and the significance of the gaming experience in the broader context of digital media and society.
Conclusion: Summarize your key findings and insights from the analysis.
Research and Citations:
Support your analysis with scholarly sources, including academic articles, books, and reputable online resources. Ensure proper citation and referencing in a consistent citation style (e.g., APA, MLA).
Format and Length:
Your essay should be between 1000 and 1500 words in length, excluding references and any appendices.
Use a 12-point font, double-spaced
Evaluation Criteria:
Your assignment will be assessed based on the following criteria:
Depth of analysis and application of theoretical concepts.
Clarity and organization of the essay.
Integration of scholarly sources and proper citation.
Critical thinking and original insights.
Writing style, grammar, and adherence to formatting guidelines.
