Digital vs. Analog gaming and the true reasons we play
I came across this (via Joystiq) blog post about board games vs. video games. It is frequently suggested that board games are superior to video games because they seem more intelligent, or thoughtful or mindful. I don't disagree with that generally, but the post makes some excellent points about the logistics in setting up, playing and cleaning up a board game compared to a digital game. Frequently I just can't find someone to play Scrabble with or four people who want to play Catan. It is just as much fun to play in both realms, but the digital one is instantly-startable-and-resettable and can be solo.
This report (via Physorg) looks at the deeper needs of gamers. Perhaps we are not just playing to have a life of decadence and fun, but wanting to explore, succeed and satisfy curiosity which it is impossible to achieve in the real world (RW). Personally I feel more comfortable training myself to do things in the digital world because I can fuck up all I need before I am up-and-running on a specific task. It also makes me able to take more risks in the RW.
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3 comments:
Oh surfing the blogosphere. Finally, a real blog in English that I can sink my teeth into!
I'm very competitive in nature, so I like all kinds of games.
As far as that report goes, I think videogames are the next logical step from movies. Pure escapism. Seems that the report is reporting the obvious.
From where I sit, it looks like video games are taking off into two separate directions. One is escapism, like Gears of War of the 360, Halo or Hitman (loved that game). The other is like board games, like Clubhouse games for the DS or Wii Sports or Katamari Damacy.
I prefer that latter, where you can compete with your friends in an arena or online to get a game going whenever desired.
I like both. When you think of it though, Wii Sports is a form of escapism when you create a Mii and perform activities that aren't normal in one's routine, i.e. boxing. I don't think people box all that much.
Plus, if you include role-playing games, i.e. Dungeons and Dragons, in the board game realm, there is some analogous with board games and escapism.
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