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Abstract

This investigative industry analysis dissects various elements of video gaming as a recreational activity, and other likening factors relative to the industry, to question the extent to which producers within the video gaming industry exert control over consumers. Using relevant theoretical approaches, and key contextual primary research, this Dissertation evaluates the most common aspects from which control between producer and consumer of video games can be evidenced, or assessed. From this, numerous evaluative conclusions are reached regarding the arguable extent of control. The first investigation provides an analysis of the video gaming industry’s timeline and its significance as a subcultural industry regarding contemporary consumer culture. The second chapter demonstrates the importance of in-game factors contributing towards control, through a thorough evaluation of gameplay, storytelling techniques and video game regulatory systems. The final chapter utilises an evaluation of advertising techniques and formats, leading to an assessment of ‘random-reward mechanisms’, and the potential for harmful behaviours or impacts to stem from them to the player. This investigation is conducted under a wider field of video gaming research, and aims to evaluate a broader range of attributes towards control in order to provide a more accurate consensus.

Course: Media and Digital Practice - BA - C2733S

Date Deposited: 2024-08-08

URI/permalink: https://library.port.ac.uk/dissert/dis14428.html