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Games. Kultur- und Mediengeschichte des Computerspiels
Last Updated: 2026-06-03 00:14:27
Abstract
Computer games have become an integral part of everyday life in the 21st century. But why are we so fascinated by “games,” and what are we actually doing when we play on a PC, console, or smartphone? This seminar seeks to explore these questions by tracing the cultural and media history of computer games, examining the specific logics of this medium, and discussing their use in societal contexts.
Objective
This seminar provides insight into the history, aesthetics and mechanics of computer games. It aims to provide an overview of the historical transformations of this medium and introduce various theoretical perspectives from literary and media studies, applying them to specific examples of games. From a historical perspective, the focus is on technological developments and the contexts in which particular genres emerged, as well as changing patterns of game usage. Theoretically, the emphasis is on how games operate: How do they tell stories? How do they simulate worlds? And how do they interact with us? Engaging with the history and theory of 'games' enables users to think critically while playing.
Content
Die Teilnehmenden erwerben das nötige Wissen, um die Regeln, Grenzen und ideologischen Implikationen digitaler Spiele zu erkennen und kritisch einzuordnen. Dafür werden Texte aus Kultur-, Literatur- und Medienwissenschaft, Philosophie sowie Geschichte gelesen. Das Spielerlebnis selbst wird anhand von Gameplay-Videos und Screenshots vermittelt und analysierbar. In einzelnen Sitzungen besteht zudem die Möglichkeit, selbst mit Spielen zu experimentieren und diese Erfahrungen zu dokumentieren. Die Auswahl der behandelten Spiele ist offen und kann zu Beginn des Seminars erweitert werden. Geplant ist jedoch eine möglichst breite Spannweite – von den Anfängen digitaler Spiele (Pong) über Klassiker des Aufbauspiels (Sim City) und des Point-and-Click-Adventures (Monkey Island) bis hin zu modernen Ego-Shootern (Call of Duty), Blockbuster-Titeln (The Last of Us) und Indie-Produktionen (Disco Elysium).
General Information
- Language
- German
- Levels
- DS , MSC
- Frequency
- Yearly recurring
Examination
- Type
- graded semester performance
Registration & Places
- Max Places
- 50
Course Components
| Type | Title | Time & Place | Hours |
|---|---|---|---|
| seminar | Games. Kultur- und Mediengeschichte des Computerspiels |
|
2 h weekly |
Offered In
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Science in Perspective (In “Science in Perspective”-courses students learn to reflect on ETH’s STEM subjects from the perspective of humanities, political and social sciences. Only the courses listed below will be recognized as "Science in Perspective" courses.)
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Type A: Enhancement of Reflection Competence (SiP courses are recommended for bachelor students after their first-year examination and for all master- or doctoral students. All SiP courses are listed in Type A. Courses listed under Type B are only recommendations for enrollment for specific departments.)
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