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Games you should Know: Unplaying War: The Radical Mechanics of 'Healer

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Manage episode 448659327 series 3606370
Content provided by Learn Video Games / Mindtoggle LLC. All podcast content including episodes, graphics, and podcast descriptions are uploaded and provided directly by Learn Video Games / Mindtoggle LLC or their podcast platform partner. If you believe someone is using your copyrighted work without your permission, you can follow the process outlined here https://podcastplayer.com/legal.

In this episode, we explore a fascinating case study from the "Critical Gameplay" series, focusing on the video game Healer and its bold reimagining of what it means to play. Healer challenges the traditional mechanics of war games by flipping the script—players aren’t there to fight; they’re there to heal. Through its innovative "unshooting" mechanic, where bullets are removed rather than fired, Healer compels players to confront the consequences of violence and reflect on the desensitizing effects of typical war reenactments in gaming. We dive into the philosophical and psychological insights behind this approach, uncovering how play can be a practice in empathy, not just action. We also discuss the challenges developers face when software tools themselves are biased toward conventional mechanics, limiting creative expression. Whether you're a gamer, a developer, or just curious about the power of play, this episode will open your eyes to the potential of video games as tools for critical thought and reflection!

  continue reading

34 episodes

Artwork
iconShare
 
Manage episode 448659327 series 3606370
Content provided by Learn Video Games / Mindtoggle LLC. All podcast content including episodes, graphics, and podcast descriptions are uploaded and provided directly by Learn Video Games / Mindtoggle LLC or their podcast platform partner. If you believe someone is using your copyrighted work without your permission, you can follow the process outlined here https://podcastplayer.com/legal.

In this episode, we explore a fascinating case study from the "Critical Gameplay" series, focusing on the video game Healer and its bold reimagining of what it means to play. Healer challenges the traditional mechanics of war games by flipping the script—players aren’t there to fight; they’re there to heal. Through its innovative "unshooting" mechanic, where bullets are removed rather than fired, Healer compels players to confront the consequences of violence and reflect on the desensitizing effects of typical war reenactments in gaming. We dive into the philosophical and psychological insights behind this approach, uncovering how play can be a practice in empathy, not just action. We also discuss the challenges developers face when software tools themselves are biased toward conventional mechanics, limiting creative expression. Whether you're a gamer, a developer, or just curious about the power of play, this episode will open your eyes to the potential of video games as tools for critical thought and reflection!

  continue reading

34 episodes

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