PAPER 1 SECTION B COMPUTER GAMES Initial research

Feature length documentary  about the history of computer games ( presented by Charlie Brooker)

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=32wN4IIDW1o 

Another history of games 

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uuxoThzFPPw

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GoyGlyrYb9c

History of consoles

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=R5ROTfHOvNI

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oWmdxeAFS-I

Research the history of video games and answer the questions below.

1 How have video games and consoles  changed through history? 

Create an illustrated  timeline document ( in blogger , word or other format )  highlighting major changes of each  decade from 1970s-2020 s ( or before if you wish )

Consider:

•  which consoles/devices were available and the most popular ( and why )

•  the important and influential games of the time

•  the advances in technology and playability ( including the creation of the internet and online play

 •  main audiences ( age , gender etc. mainstream or niche , fans of other media products e.g films, TV  )

2. List and summarise the various audience pleasures and experiences that computer games can provide  ( e.g completing levels , making  money , competition with others , forming communities , achieving goals , improving skills etc. swapping tips and watching other gamers etc. )  Give examples to support your points from the videos above and your own gaming.

How did the creation of the internet and online play affect these pleasures ?

3  Summarise the ways producers of modern consoles and games maximise their income. List the ways in which they can make money from their audiences .

4. What moral or social issues  have been raised by games ?  ( e.g violence, representation and attitudes to women etc   )  Give examples.