Marijiam Did's 'Everything to Play For' explores the intersection of video games and politics, challenging traditional assumptions about the industry. The book examines how video games can be used to achieve egalitarian goals, moving beyond the common perception of games as solely entertainment for young white boys. Did analyzes the historical factors that contributed to this perception and proposes alternative approaches to game design and community building. The book also delves into the complexities of violence in video games, questioning whether it is inherently negative and exploring its potential for creative and thought-provoking expression. Ultimately, 'Everything to Play For' encourages a critical examination of the gaming industry's influence and potential for positive social change.
Everything to Play For: How Videogames Are Changing the World (Verso, 2024) by Marijiam Did asks if videogames can achieve egalitarian goals instead of fuelling hyper-materialist, reactionary agendas. Combining cultural theory and materialist critiques with accessible language and personal anecdotes, industry insider Marijam Did engages both novices and seasoned connoisseurs. From the innovations of Pong and Doom to the intricate multiplayer or narrative-driven games, the author highlights the multifaceted stories of the gaming communities and the political actors who organise among them. Crucially, the focus also includes the people who make the games, shedding light on the brutal processes necessary to bring titles to the public.
The videogame industry, now larger than the film and music industries combined, has a proven ability to challenge the status quo. With a rich array of examples, Did argues for a nuanced understanding of gaming’s influence so that this extraordinary power can be harnessed for good.
This interview was conducted by Dr. Miranda Melcher whose new book focuses on post-conflict military integration, understanding treaty negotiation and implementation in civil war contexts, with qualitative analysis of the Angolan and Mozambican civil wars.
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New Books in Science, Technology, and Society