The Middle Ages in Computer Games (Paperback)

Robert Houghton

ISBN 10: 1843848236 / ISBN 13: 9781843848233

Published by Boydell & Brewer Ltd, Cambridge, 2026

About this Item

Paperback. Offers the most comprehensive analysis and discussion of medievalist computer games to date.Games with a medieval setting are commercially lucrative and reach a truly massive audience. Moreover, they can engage their players in a manner that is not only different, but in certain aspects, more profound than traditional literary or cinematic forms of medievalism. However, although it is important to understand the versions of the Middle Ages presented by these games, how players engage with these medievalist worlds, and why particular representational trends emerge in this most modern medium, there has hitherto been little scholarship devoted to them.This book explores the distinct nature of medievalism in digital games across a range of themes, from the portrayal of grotesque yet romantic conflict to conflicting depictions of the Church and religion. It likewise considers the distinctions between medievalist games and those of other periods, underlining their emphasis on fantasy, roleplay and hardcore elements, and their consequences for depictions of morality, race, gender and sexuality. Ultimately the book argues that while medievalist games are thoroughly influenced by medievalist and ludic tropes, they are nonetheless representative of a distinct new form of medievalism. It engages with the vast literature surrounding historical game studies, game design, and medievalism, and considers hundreds of games from across genres, from Assassin's Creed and Baldur's Gate to Crusader Kings and The Witcher series. In doing so, it provides a vital illustration of the state of the field and a cornerstone for future research and teaching. Offers the most comprehensive analysis and discussion of medievalist computer games to date. Shipping may be from multiple locations in the US or from the UK, depending on stock availability.

Seller Inventory # 9781843848233

Bibliographic Details

• Title: The Middle Ages in Computer Games (Paperback)
• Publisher: Boydell & Brewer Ltd, Cambridge
• Publication Date: 2026
• Language: English
• ISBN 10: 1843848236
• ISBN 13: 9781843848233
• Binding: Paperback
• Condition: new

About this title

Synopsis

Offers the most comprehensive analysis and discussion of medievalist computer games to date.


Games with a medieval setting are commercially lucrative and reach a truly massive audience. Moreover, they can engage their players in a manner that is not only different, but in certain aspects, more profound than traditional literary or cinematic forms of medievalism. However, although it is important to understand the versions of the Middle Ages presented by these games, how players engage with these medievalist worlds, and why particular representational trends emerge in this most modern medium, there has hitherto been little scholarship devoted to them.


This book explores the distinct nature of medievalism in digital games across a range of themes, from the portrayal of grotesque yet romantic conflict to conflicting depictions of the Church and religion. It likewise considers the distinctions between medievalist games and those of other periods, underlining their emphasis on fantasy, roleplay and hardcore elements, and their consequences for depictions of morality, race, gender and sexuality. Ultimately the book argues that while medievalist games are thoroughly influenced by medievalist and ludic tropes, they are nonetheless representative of a distinct new form of medievalism. It engages with the vast literature surrounding historical game studies, game design, and medievalism, and considers hundreds of games from across genres, from Assassin's Creed and Baldur's Gate to Crusader Kings and The Witcher series. In doing so, it provides a vital illustration of the state of the field and a cornerstone for future research and teaching.

About the Author

ROBERT HOUGHTON is Senior Lecturer in Medieval History at the University of Winchester, UK.