CSP: Sims Freeplay

Essay Questions

  1. “Computer games are worthy of study because they are capable of conveying important cultural meanings”. To what extent do you agree with this statement?
  2. To what extent is narrative theory useful in explaining the success of simulation games?
  3. How useful is Jean Baudrillard’s concepts of hyperreality and simulation in understanding how computer games construct meaning?
  4. “Players may interpret simulation games differently depending on their goals or purposes for consuming the text.” To what extent do you agree with this statement?
  5. David Gauntlett suggests media texts help audiences construct their identities. Explore this idea in relation to life simulation games.
  6. How valid are Judith Butler’s ideas of gender trouble and performativity to understanding simulation games such as The Sims FreePlay?
  7. What are the values, attitudes and beliefs embodied in the representations found in The Sims FreePlay?
  8. “When we see representations of ethnicity in computer games, we need to critically assess those representations”. To what extent do you agree with this statement?
  9. “Computer games should be regulated to protect young consumers from potential health risks.” To what extent do you agree with this statement?
  10. Explain why the Close Study Product The Sims FreePlay demonstrates the target audience for computer games continues to change.
  11. How useful is Henry Jenkins’ theory of fandom in explaining the audience’s engagement with computer games?
  12. To what extent do computer games blur the definitions of producer and audience? You should refer to the Close Study Product The Sims FreePlay to support your answer.

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