TThere's a prevailing misconception about video games: that they belong to a distinct subculture that cannot be translated into other forms of media like books or movies. However, this has never been true. In the ’80s and ’90s, games (and virtual worlds) transitioned from the hacker dystopia of William Gibson’s Neuromancer to the drug-like alternate reality depicted in Jeff Noon’s works, becoming a prevalent theme in cyberpunk fiction.
The history and culture of video games have been extensively explored in literature, from the How to Beat Pac-Man manuals of the 1980s to current journalistic investigations on game development by authors like Jason Schreier and Tom Bissell. Whether you’re a seasoned gamer or a novice, you can gain valuable insights into video games and the modern digital landscape from these five books.
Kushner, a respected New York Times and Rolling Stone journalist, brings his sharp reporting skills and cultural expertise to his examination of the influential 1993 shooter Doom and its creators. Masters of Doom delves into the chaotic, anarchic nature of game development in the 1990s, highlighting the late-night coding sessions, pizza-fueled marathons, and quirky genius behind the creation of the game. It’s a captivating narrative of inspiration, friendship, and creative brilliance.
Zevin’s enchanting novel, which unexpectedly became a bestseller in 2022, narrates the journey of three young game developers as they pursue their dreams and navigate the challenges of creation. While the novel delves into the specifics of game development, its core is a story of love, empathy, and inspiration set within the backdrop of a development studio.
Originally published in 1982, and sadly out of print for a long time, this unique relic penned by Amis offers a glimpse into early arcade culture with wit and intelligence. The book, written by a former gaming enthusiast, shares personal experiences in sleazy New York arcades and provides tips on conquering popular games of that era. An updated edition with historic photos and screenshots is now available, promising an entertaining read.
Gamish Written by Edward Ross
Video game history has often been insular, focusing on console releases rather than the cultural impact. Gamish takes a different approach, offering an accessible and engaging graphic history written and illustrated by comic book artist Ross. It not only chronicles significant moments in gaming but also explores the meaning of games to players and society, addressing issues like sexism in the industry and among fans.
Reamde, a sprawling techno-thriller, traverses the globe, weaving a tale from Idaho to Cambridge to Taiwan, involving hackers, criminals, and the complexities of an online multiplayer game infected with a computer virus. Through a blend of cultural observations and humorous storytelling, Reamde captures the essence of games in the digital age, akin to how Infinite Jest delves into the world of tennis.
Source: www.theguardian.com
