The Videogames Handbook

Author: James Newman and Iain Simons Series: Media Practice

Surveys both the theory and practice of a fast-growing, yet relatively new disciplinary area. Mapping the commercial process of videogame production from pre-production to games journalism, this book demystifies the language of technical production processes by offering the reader a review of key production roles.

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Summary

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Featuring contributions from leading figures in the videogames industry including the international games scholar Henry Jenkins; Simon and Andrew Oliver, directors of Blitz Games; and writer and broadcaster Aleks Krotoski; this book surveys both the theory and practice of this fast-growing, yet relatively new disciplinary area. Mapping the commercial process of videogame production from pre-production to games journalism, David Surman demystifies the language of technical production processes by offering the reader a review of key production roles, along with the skills required to fulfil them. Focusing on the distribution and reception of videogames as a cultural form, as well as offering broader perspectives on issues such as the place of games in education and domestic technology, Surman examines the critical perspectives that have emerged in the academic community.

Critic Reviews

“'Games Studies is an emerging and fast-growing area and this would be an invaluable addition to the literature in the field...' - Paul Ward, Brunel University, UK '...game studies is a new disciplinary area which has gained not only academic recognition but also attracted ever higher levels of student interest. What is particularly interesting about this book is its aim to cover three aspects of videogames: their production, player culture and games as an academic discipline.' ”

- Caroline Peletier, University of London, UK 'The book will serve as a good overview and introduction to various important sectors in the field.' - Diane Carr, University of London, UK

About the Author

David Surman is the Associate programme leader and Lecturer in Computer Games Design and Associate Lecturer in Animation at the Newport School of Art, Media and Design, University of Wales, Newport.