For extra credit, write 500 words using only these two sources:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9yl_XPkcTl4

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=faJeVMIVGIg

The introduction scene for Chrono Cross (1999, 2:32) and a speed run of Super Mario Brothers (1985, 5:21). Please focus on time investment, graphics, audio, scope, based only on these two videos.

Paper Topics

Do not waste time with your paper! Topic proposals are due at the end of week 2. Outline and Intro are due week 4. First Draft is due week 8, and Final Draft is due week 16.

Regarding responses: I expect to see a historical analysis using the actual gameplay as a primary source in conjunction with other sources.

These are your only assignments for the entire course, so I expect more than leetspeak and informal reviews. However, you are welcome to analyse a published review of the assigned game, using outside research, as your weekly response.

Weekly Play Assignments

Here is the play assignment schedule. You should put at least 6 hours into each title. Focus on the progression in technical, artistic, and gameplay advances. Your responses should include content from outside sources, such as the textbook, articles, or other research. Special requests must be within the same timeframe.
Week 1 - Know Your Roots: Super Mario Brothers and The Legend Of Zelda (1985 NES)
Week 2 - Improving the Formula : Super Mario 3 and Sonic The Hedgehog 2
Week 3 - Ultraviolence and the Immersive Environment: Doom 2 and Duke Nukem 3d, TIE Fighter for Extra Credit
Week 4 - A New Kind of Storytelling: Final Fantasy VI or Chrono Trigger
Week 5 - A Giant Leap (Backwards?): Super Mario 64 or Starfox 64 or Tomb Raider
Week 6 - 3d Realism: Final Fantasy VII or Metal Gear Solid
Week 7 - Addiction: Halo or Diablo 2
Week 8 - Games or Movies?: Final Fantasy X, Metal Gear Solid 2, or Chronicles of Riddick: Escape From Butcher Bay
Week 9 - Live Action's Short Reign: Red Alert 2,
Week 10 - The Enemy's Gate is Down: Homeworld 2 and Starcraft
Week 11 - Vicarious Experience: Morrowind or Oblivion
Week 12 - Virtual History: Call of Duty 4 and Call of Duty: World At War
Weeks 13 - 16: Individual Research

Welcome to HIST 4392!

This is a Senior level special topic course, focusing on the rise of video gaming as a popular hobby in American culture. The effects of this radical development in human recreation upon Americans will be explored in detail, beginning in 1985. The worldwide impact of video game culture, originating chiefly from Japan and the United States, will be explored briefly.
Students will submit a 10 page research paper as their final exam, which I urge they begin immediately. The paper must include at least 15 primary sources and 5 secondary sources.
Each week, students will post 150 words minimum relating to that week's play assignment.