The Language of Video Games

About the lecture

In this module, we explore the specific “language” used by video games, focusing in particular on: (i) the active role of the player in shaping video games through play; (ii) video game design language, e.g. player mechanics, and their significance; (iii) the use of player mechanics to communicate story themes, e.g. in Grand Theft Auto IV (GTA IV); (iv) how a video game can convey meanings through actions completed by a machine and an operator, in ways distinctive from other media forms.

About the lecturer

Dr Paolo Ruffino is Senior Lecturer in Communication and Media at the University of Liverpool. His research and teaching interests focus on video games, interactive media and digital cultures. His publications include: ‘Future Gaming: Creative Interventions in Video Game Culture’ (2018). He leads a module on Games and Algorithmic Culture at Liverpool.