

Game Studies Study Buddies
Ranged Touch
Learn all about the academic field of game studies!
Episodes
Mentioned books

Oct 30, 2020 • 2h 9min
28 – Wark – Gamer Theory
We discuss McKenzie Wark’s Gamer Theory.
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Chris Hunt created the theme song for this show.

Sep 29, 2020 • 2h 16min
27 – Bailes – Ideology and the Virtual City
We discuss Jon Bailes’ Ideology and the Virtual City and learn a thing or two about psychoanalysis and Marxism.
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Come hang out in our Discord channel.
Support this show and all of our videos on Patreon, where you can also get our notes for this episode for $3 a month!
Chris Hunt created the theme song for this show.

Aug 28, 2020 • 2h 15min
26 – Calleja – In-Game
Author Gordon Calleja discusses immersion in games, philosophical perspectives, Borges's work, new research methods, player involvement, composite beings, immersion vs. presence, micro-macro terms, hexagonal chart visualization, multiplayer gameplay, and the concept of incorporation in gaming.

Jul 31, 2020 • 2h 5min
25 – Murray – On Video Games
We discuss Soraya Murray’s On Video Games.
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Come hang out in our Discord channel.
Support this show and all of our videos on Patreon, where you can also get our notes for this episode for $3 a month!
Chris Hunt created the theme song for this show.

Jun 30, 2020 • 2h 30min
24 – Laxton – Surrealism at Play
The discussion dives into Susan Laxton's 'Surrealism at Play,' merging art history with game studies. Key themes include how surrealism intersects with psychoanalysis and the unconscious mind, showcasing relatable examples like food cravings and gaming experiences. The podcast also critiques representation in Surrealist art and explores the radical nature of play as a resistance against societal norms. Additionally, there's a look at innovative photography games and the chaotic creativity of urban environments intertwined with surrealist collaboration.

May 29, 2020 • 1h 44min
23 – Csikszentmihalyi – Flow
We discuss Mihaly Csikszentmihalyi’s Flow: The Psychology of Optimal Experience.
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Come hang out in our Discord channel.
Support this show and all of our videos on Patreon, where you can also get our notes for this episode for $3 a month!
Chris Hunt created the theme song for this show.

Apr 27, 2020 • 2h 3min
22 – Chang – Playing Nature
We discuss Alenda Chang’s Playing Nature.
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Come hang out in our Discord channel.
Support this show and all of our videos on Patreon, where you can also get our notes for this episode for $3 a month!
Chris Hunt created the theme song for this show.

Mar 31, 2020 • 2h 27min
21 – Pearce – Communities of Play
We discuss Celia Pearce’s Communities of Play.
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Come hang out in our Discord channel.
Support this show and all of our videos on Patreon, where you can also get our notes for this episode for $3 a month!
Chris Hunt created the theme song for this show.

Feb 29, 2020 • 1h 52min
20 – The King of Kong
The hosts immerse themselves in the 2007 documentary, exploring the intense rivalry between Steve Wiebe and Billy Mitchell. They analyze how the film's narrative shapes perceptions of competitive gaming and discuss the cultural significance of high scores at Twin Galaxies. Personal stories weave through discussions on parenting and gaming aspirations, highlighting emotional stakes. The chaotic ending and the characters' complexities reflect deeper themes of hope, redemption, and societal dynamics, all wrapped in humor and intriguing insights into gaming culture.

Jan 31, 2020 • 2h 4min
19 – Kocurek – Coin-Operated Americans
Dive into the cultural transformation of video game arcades from the '70s to '80s, where gaming shifted from adult entertainment to family fun. Explore the gender dynamics of gaming in the '90s, illustrated by personal anecdotes and marketing trends. Discover the humorous critique of masculinity in gaming culture alongside nostalgic reflections and regulatory complexities surrounding pinball. Lastly, discuss the impact of notable works, like 'Death Race 2000', and the intersection of gaming culture with gender politics, urging a more inclusive community.


