A broad treatment of computer and video games from a wide range of perspectives, including cognitive science and artificial intelligence, psychology, history, film and theater, cultural studies, and philosophy.

New media students, teachers, and professionals have long needed a comprehensive scholarly treatment of digital games that deals with the history, design, reception, and aesthetics of games along with their social and cultural context. The Handbook of Computer Game Studies fills this need with a definitive look at the subject from a broad range of perspectives. Contributors come from cognitive science and artificial intelligence, developmental, social, and clinical psychology, history, film, theater, and literary studies, cultural studies, and philosophy as well as game design and development. The text includes both scholarly articles and journalism from such well-known voices as Douglas Rushkoff, Sherry Turkle, Henry Jenkins, Katie Salen, Eric Zimmerman, and others.

Part I considers the "prehistory" of computer games (including slot machines and pinball machines), the development of computer games themselves, and the future of mobile gaming. The chapters in part II describe game development from the designer's point of view, including the design of play elements, an analysis of screenwriting, and game-based learning. Part III reviews empirical research on the psychological effects of computer games, and includes a discussion of the use of computer games in clinical and educational settings. Part IV considers the aesthetics of games in comparison to film and literature, and part V discusses the effect of computer games on cultural identity, including gender and ethnicity. Finally, part VI looks at the relation of computer games to social behavior, considering, among other matters, the inadequacy of laboratory experiments linking games and aggression and the different modes of participation in computer game culture.

About the Author

Joost Raessens is Professor of Media Theory, Department of Media and Culture Studies, in the Faculty of Humanities, Utrecht University

Jeffrey Goldstein is Affiliated Researcher at the Research Institute for History and Culture, in the Faculty of Humanities, Utrecht University.

"About this title" may belong to another edition of this title.

Store Description

We love books and pride ourselves of giving the customer the best buying experience.

Visit Seller's Storefront

Seller's business information

Toscana Books
TX, U.S.A.

Sale & Shipping Terms

Terms of Sale

All returns are accepted within 30 days.

Shipping Terms

All books will be shipped through media mail. All books will be shipped within 2 business days.

Shipping rates within U.S.A.

Shipping rates within U.S.A.
Order quantity	14 to 21 business days	13 to 14 business days
First item	US$ 4.30	US$ 14.50

Delivery times are set by sellers and vary by carrier and location. Orders passing through Customs may face delays and buyers are responsible for any associated duties or fees. Sellers may contact you regarding additional charges to cover any increased costs to ship your items.