Interesting piece on CBC Spark that discusses a new trend in gaming - empathy. This is an interesting evolution of video games. There has been much written about the negative impact of gaming, its link with depression, social isolation, sexism, etc. Many of these are grossly simplistic and fail to enter into the logic and narratives of many modern games. Many have fairly elaborate stories and writing and this accounts for much of their popularity. My daughter is a gaming and through her interest, I began to explore this world. There are many that have compelling and dramatic stories as well as the usual fun of trying to discover puzzles, and even make choices.
The radio program embedded below, discussed how certain new games such as Riot and and Spirits of Spring actually make you, as part of the game, empathize with the character. As the linked story notes " RIOT is a video game that simulates riots that have actually happened in places such as Egypt and Italy. In Spirits of Spring, you play a young Cree boy who is bullied." Good article and these might be something for educators or others to consider Why empathy is the next big thing in video games |
My PenséesThe title of this blog is an allusion to the famous work of Blaise Pascal. This blog represents the variety of my interests and thoughts on any given day and are strung together, like Pascal's Pensees, in no particular order. I work in the field of mental health, education, and human rights. I write and am a human rights advocate. I enjoy poetry, jazz, spirituality, politics and a potpourri of other interests that you will see reflected in this blog. Archives
December 2021
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