In-Game Reality

No matter the age, nor genre of a game they always have similarities that are clearly outlined by Jane as voluntary participation.  The ability players have to accept and control their influence over a game whether it be story driven, or puzzle based is what drives the player into the experience.  Over time there are many games involving choice and it is one that you make for yourself, under no judgment from others you as a unique player are allowed to choose the fate of the story.  However sometimes games can take a step too far forcing players to continue down a path they may not wish to take.  An example of this would be ‘Call of Duty: Modern Warfare 2’ where you had to massacre civilians in an airport.  It was only after massive outrage the studio allowed players the ability to skip the mission.

Every game has a set goal and these unnecessary obstacles drive us forward to continue playing.  When they win a race, obtain the highest score a player can gain a sense of achievement, but one could argue whether it is false.  In actuality why should winning a real game of tennis be any more fulfilling than a computer game of tennis? Whether it be real or computer generated tennis is still a game that involves a pointless level of fun, but there is nothing wrong with that.  “A game is an opportunity to focus our energy, with relentless optimism…and enjoy.” (McGonigal, 2011)

The enjoyment felt from gaming isn’t simply because its fun but the lack of pressure involved.  Games are in fact hard work but classified as fun because when, “we do hard work that we care about, we are priming our minds for happiness.” (McGonigal 2011)  When we enjoy something it doesn’t mean hard work and dedication didn’t get us there.  With games, failure is an illusion.  Dying, or failing an objective is a mere setback and while it may be hard work, we are willing to try again because we have the option to, which is more uncommon in life.

BIBLIOGRAPHY

McGonical, J (2011) Reality is Broken: Why Games Make Us Better and Why Can Change the World.  Penguin Press HC.

Infinity Ward, 2009, Call of Duty Modern Warfare 2, Computer and Console Game, Multiple Formats, Activision.