The Characters and Stories We Play: Connecting Video Games to Literature and Writing

Speaker: John Misak, D.A., Professor of English,

Video games offer more than quick action. They immerse players in rich stories. But you probably already knew that. Most game players have those wow story moments. Like Sarah dying in Joel’s arms to begin The Last of Us. Or the suicide mission in Mass Effect 2. Maybe meeting King Hyrule’s ghost in Breath of the Wild. The characters and stories in games students play cultivate a sense of narrative similar to the teachings of a literature class. So, why not combine the two? It’s happening here at New York Tech.

Modern lit classrooms meld the historical with the technological, connecting the latest PS5 exclusive to a classic play or short story. Computer Science, Health Professions, and Engineering majors can take away far more from a core English class than they expect. Discover how Professor Misak weaves the vast universes of video games and literature together in an exciting student-driven quest for narrative. See the effects of having students create games as literature projects. Realize how games are more than just play. Bring your own experiences and join the discussion!

Use the button above or go to nyit.zoom.us/join and enter meeting ID: 935 3340 0570.

This event is part of the Dean’s Digital Café Series, NYIT College of Arts & Sciences, Spring 2021.