How do we play at stories? How do we use stories to play?

This course investigates the relationship between narrative and play, in games and in literature. We will explore the media histories, design theories, and many technologies of interactive experiences, focusing on where literary and narrative arts intersect with interactive media and game design. When we consider video games, apps, interactive films, websites, avant-garde writing, children’s literature, and more… how have game/books changed the possibilities of narrative as it is read, written, or played?

Our class is structured in topic units which pair gameplay experiences with game theories. Periodic in-class and take-home exercises will teach literature and technology skills, building towards the midterm assignment and final paper.