Aesthetics and Video Games - (Bloomsbury Aesthetics) by Christopher Bartel (Hardcover)

Book Synopsis

Aesthetics and Video Games introduces current issues and ideas in philosophical aesthetics that help us to better understand why video games are different from cinema, animation and other types of fiction.

Addressing two foundational issues, the notion of the aesthetic and the value of play, it asks what the aesthetic is and investigates how value arises from different forms of play. Introducing the history and theory surrounding these questions, this book:

- Offers an account of the value of games that places gameplay and interactivity at its core
- Acknowledges the importance of both ethical and feminist criticisms of games
- Offers a novel account of how video games can be valued as competitions, narratives, and toys
- Suggests ways in which a theory of the aesthetics of games must move beyond traditional approaches in aesthetics.

Drawing from work in philosophy, media studies, psychology, and gender studies, it not only demonstrates how theories from these areas can helpfully come into conversation with each other, it explores new paradigms, models, and concepts that aid our knowledge of video games in today's culture.

Review Quotes

"This book is a breath of fresh air. It is well-researched and argued. It uses tons of examples from actual games and is joy to read. Most importantly it vindicates a common way that many of us play: the dollhouse attitude. If you've spent any time customizing your character for no other reason than you enjoy it, this book is for you!" --Stephanie Partridge, Emerita Professor of Philosophy, Otterbein University, USA

"Well written, elegantly argued, and packed with pitch-perfect examples, this book goes a long way towards settling the matter of what, if anything, is aesthetically special about video games. Everyone interested in aesthetics or (video) games should read it!" --Nathan Wildman, Assistant Professor of Philosophy, Tilburg University, Netherlands

About the Author

Christopher Bartel is Professor of Philosophy at Appalachian State University, USA.