Write an essay addressing the term “representation” as it applies to games. You are welcome to use whatever sources available, especially readings presented in this course. Knowing how to use a source effectively is crucial, and this means two things: knowing how to extract and interpret information, and just as importantly, knowing how to incorporate that information in your essay in such a way that you persuasively support an argument.
QUESTION
Write an essay addressing the term “representation” as it applies to games. You are welcome to use whatever sources available, especially readings presented in this course. Knowing how to use a source effectively is crucial, and this means two things: knowing how to extract and interpret information, and just as importantly, knowing how to incorporate that information in your essay in such a way that you persuasively support an argument.
The term “representation” is not precise. It can have multiple connotations, and they all apply to the material culture and performance of games. You are not required to address all connotations, just one or two. The important thing is to explain what you mean by “representation” in your essay. Be specific.
Use Examples: It is essential that you concretize your ideas by presenting one or more examples. Writers often find specificity a challenge, so the effective exploration of an example is an effective way to develop an essay and make the assertion convincing. In art and architecture history, ideas involve and relate to physical objects and human interactions with those objects. Writing therefore should also involve tangible examples, and since this is a brief essay, limiting your examples to two or three is good practice.
Requirements for the Essay: The essay on representation should be at least 1500 words in length. Structure your essay in a clear way, and support your assertion in the body of your text. Be specific when necessary; be detailed. Above all, write a smart, interesting and well-crafted essay. Spelling, punctuation, and grammar are important considerations in grading the essay. It is also crucial that you cite sources, as well as apply appropriate use of quotation marks, notes and bibliography.
ANSWER
Representation in Games: Exploring Meaning, Identity, and Inclusivity
Introduction
In the realm of video games, the term “representation” encompasses the ways in which games depict characters, narratives, and cultural contexts. It goes beyond mere visual or auditory portrayal, encompassing the broader concepts of meaning, identity, and inclusivity. This essay aims to explore the multifaceted nature of representation in games, focusing on two key aspects: the representation of diverse identities and the portrayal of cultural contexts. By analyzing specific examples, we can understand how representation shapes players’ experiences and perceptions within the gaming medium.
Representation of Diverse Identities
One crucial aspect of representation in games is the depiction of diverse identities. Historically, video games have often relied on stereotypical characterizations that perpetuated harmful biases and reinforced social inequalities. However, in recent years, the industry has made significant strides in offering more diverse and inclusive representations.
One notable example of positive representation is the critically acclaimed game “The Last of Us Part II” developed by Naughty Dog. The game features a diverse cast of characters, including Ellie, a lesbian protagonist, and Lev, a transgender teenage boy. By portraying these characters authentically and exploring their personal struggles and growth, the game challenges traditional stereotypes and fosters a greater understanding and empathy among players. Through these representations, players from marginalized communities can see themselves reflected and find validation and empowerment within the gaming space.
Another noteworthy example is the game “Gone Home” developed by The Fullbright Company. It explores LGBTQ+ themes and narratives by immersing players in the personal story of a young woman returning home to uncover the secrets of her sister’s relationship. The game’s emphasis on emotional storytelling and its sensitive portrayal of queer experiences contribute to a more nuanced and inclusive representation of LGBTQ+ identities in gaming. Such examples demonstrate that representation in games can go beyond surface-level diversity to delve into the complexities of lived experiences, thereby enriching the medium and fostering greater player engagement.
Portrayal of Cultural Contexts
Representation in games also extends to the portrayal of cultural contexts, enabling players to explore and engage with diverse cultures and perspectives. Games have the potential to bridge gaps in understanding, challenge cultural stereotypes, and promote intercultural dialogue.
Ubisoft’s “Assassin’s Creed” series provides an excellent example of cultural representation in gaming. Each installment of the franchise is set in a distinct historical period, allowing players to immerse themselves in various cultures such as Renaissance Italy, Ancient Egypt, and Feudal Japan. These games meticulously recreate the architecture, clothing, and language of the respective time periods, fostering an immersive experience that encourages players to learn about different cultures while enjoying the gameplay. By capturing the essence of these cultures, “Assassin’s Creed” demonstrates how games can serve as powerful educational tools, promoting cultural appreciation and understanding.
Furthermore, the indie game “Journey” developed by Thatgamecompany showcases the representation of cultural context in a more abstract manner. The game takes players on a mysterious pilgrimage through a desert, emphasizing visual storytelling and a universal human experience of exploration, companionship, and transcendence. By intentionally avoiding explicit cultural references, “Journey” offers a representation that transcends specific identities and provides a shared emotional journey that resonates with players from diverse backgrounds. This demonstrates that representation can also be achieved through a more abstract and universal approach, fostering a sense of unity and connection among players.
Conclusion
Representation in games plays a vital role in shaping players’ experiences, fostering inclusivity, and promoting cultural understanding. Through the portrayal of diverse identities, games can challenge stereotypes and empower marginalized communities. Moreover, by accurately representing cultural contexts, games can bridge gaps in understanding, promote empathy, and facilitate intercultural dialogue.
The examples discussed, such as “The Last of Us Part II,” “Gone Home,” “Assassin’s Creed,” and “Journey,” illustrate the diverse ways in which games can effectively represent identities and cultural contexts. As the gaming industry continues to evolve, it is crucial for developers to prioritize inclusive and authentic representation, creating spaces where players from all walks of life can find themselves represented and celebrated.
By embracing the power of representation, games can become transformative experiences that not only entertain but also educate, inspire, and empower players to engage with the world around them in meaningful ways.
References
Review of “The Last of Us Part II” – IGN: [https://www.ign.com/articles/the-last-of-us-part-2-review]
Gone Home: A Story Exploration Game: [https://gonehome.game/]
Assassin’s Creed Official Website: [https://www.ubisoft.com/en-gb/game/assassins-creed/]
Journey Official Website: [https://thatgamecompany.com/journey/]

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