BYU Launches Program to Play and Study Video Games as a New Human Expression

Video games have long been a subject of study from various perspectives, with researchers delving into their physical, social, and emotional impacts. Now, at Brigham Young University (BYU), two professors are pioneering a novel approach by examining them through the lens of humanities. Every Monday at 4 p.m., students gather in the Humanities Learning Commons for faculty lectures on video games, which are then available for them to play throughout the week. This initiative led by humanities professors Michael Call and Brian Croxall has already seen the analysis and play of games like Stardew Valley and Minecraft.

Why Video Games Matter in Humanities

Croxall emphasizes that video games are as complex, immersive, and beautiful as traditional art forms. He asks, "Why play games? Why on earth wouldn't we?" Call connects his work on 17th-century France to video games, highlighting how the development of quantitative probability by French mathematicians during that period revolutionized various aspects of life, including gaming. He notes the large disparity between the cultural importance of video games and their study on campus, which led to the creation of the lecture series.

Professors with expertise in literary studies, philosophy, and visual arts bring their knowledge to the lectures, applying their theorization to different video games. Call enjoys seeing the connections his colleagues make between their expertise and the chosen games. He believes that video games represent a new medium that is contributing to the cultural conversation in interesting ways.

Analyzing video games from a humanities perspective enables students to ask questions similar to those for novels or paintings. They can explore what arguments the game makes and how it relates to contemporary issues. As a humanities professor, Call is fascinated by witnessing the birth and development of a new form of human expression.

The Impact of Humanities on Video Games

By applying humanities approaches, students gain a deeper understanding of video games. They can explore the cultural significance, the creative elements, and the ways in which games reflect and shape human experiences. This perspective allows for a more comprehensive analysis than just focusing on gameplay or technical aspects.

For example, in analyzing Stardew Valley, students can consider how the game's design reflects social and economic aspects of human life. They can discuss the themes of community, work, and self-sufficiency that are present in the game. Similarly, when looking at Minecraft, the focus can be on how the game encourages creativity and exploration, and how it relates to concepts of architecture and spatial design.

The humanities also help students develop critical thinking skills as they engage with video games. They learn to analyze the messages and values conveyed by the games and to compare them to other forms of human expression. This interdisciplinary approach enriches the study of video games and provides a more holistic understanding of their significance.

The Future of Video Game Studies in Humanities

The success of this approach suggests a promising future for video game studies within the humanities. As more professors and students embrace this perspective, the field will continue to grow and evolve.

It opens up new avenues for research and exploration, allowing for a more diverse range of questions and analyses. Video games are no longer seen as mere entertainment but as important cultural artifacts that deserve careful study and interpretation.

With the continued integration of humanities perspectives into video game studies, we can expect to gain a deeper understanding of the role that games play in our lives and in society as a whole. This will lead to more meaningful discussions and a greater appreciation for the creative and cultural value of video games.