HIST 3304 - Gaming the Past

Games are powerful tools for the study of the past. Games from past societies give insight into that culture's interests and values. Modern role-immersion games set in the past allow players to re-live the choices faced by those living at critical historical junctures. Simulation games allow one to model past events, while popular strategy games set in historical periods reveal how our present culture views its own past. In this course students will learn about both the past and present by playing and analyzing a variety of historical games. Students in this course will use games to enhance their knowledge of the past, to develop their ability to analyze complex systems and cultural artifacts, to debate with and persuade others, and to empathize with those who possess different views. The specific games chosen will vary each semester. In some semesters, students will also design their own game. 3 credits.