DD 101

Critical Play

This course introduces students to the concept of critical play. To play a game critically means deconstructing the ideas, beliefs, and values a game conveys through its mechanics (i.e. actions within the game), dynamics (i.e. interactions within the game), and aesthetics (i.e. the look and feel of the game). Students will play various analog and digital games, read theory and criticism of games as a communicative art form, and write critical commentary on games. This introduction to critical play will provide a foundation for subsequent courses in critical game design. Prerequisites: Registration status: Honours GDD program or GDD specialization.