Gaming is unlikely: A Theory of Ludic Action

By: Hans-Jürgen Arlt and Fabian Arlt

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Synopsis: A concept of game is justified and unfolded that revolves around the lure and threat of the unexpected. The author duo places their theory of ludic action in classical concepts of the game as well as in the current discourse of game studies. The phenomenal multiplicity of games is outlined in historical perspective and structured in a systematic manner. The authors explain the media-technical and communicative preconditions of the computer game boom and reflect on the discussion about escalations of ludic violence. The instrumentalization of games, which is becoming increasingly popular under the heading of gamification, is critically examined. The conspicuous inflation of the game metaphor is brought into connection with ludic connotations in the social structures of modern and digital society.