Key terms
1. LED (light-emitting diode): A display technology that uses tiny red, green, and blue
diodes to create an image on a screen. LED displays tend to be thinner and more
energy-efficient than other types of displays.
2. LCD (liquid crystal display): A display technology that uses liquid crystals that become
opaque or transparent in response to an electric current to create an image on a screen.
3. LAN (local area network): A computer network that connects computers and devices
within a limited geographical area, such as a home or office.
4. First-person perspective game: A video game in which the player experiences the game
world through the eyes of the game's protagonist.
5. Video game: An electronic game that involves interaction with a user interface to
generate visual feedback on a video device.
6. MUD (multiuser dimension): An online text-based virtual world in which players can
interact with each other and the environment.
7. Exergame: A video game that requires physical activity, such as dancing or jumping, to
play.
8. Gamification: The process of using game design elements and principles in non-game
contexts to engage and motivate people.
9. E-sports: Competitive video gaming, often with professional players and organized
tournaments.
10. Third-party publishers: Companies that produce and distribute video games, but are not
owned by the console manufacturers.
Questions for Review
1. Who are David Gottlieb and Harry Williams? What were their contributions to the
development of pinball?
David Gottlieb and Harry Williams were pioneers in the development of pinball machines.
Gottlieb, in particular, was responsible for creating the first widely successful pinball machine,
Baffle Ball, in 1931. Williams, meanwhile, developed many important innovations in pinball
technology, including the tilt mechanism and the first-ever electro-mechanical pinball machine.
2. How did Pong affect the development of video gaming?
Pong, one of the earliest video games, was a groundbreaking success upon its release in 1972.
Its popularity inspired many other game developers to create their own versions of the game,
and helped establish video gaming as a viable and profitable industry.
3. What makes a video game a video game?
A video game is a type of interactive entertainment that involves player input and feedback,
usually in the form of a virtual world or scenario. Some of the defining features of video games
include user control over on-screen characters or objects, objectives or goals that the player
must achieve, and varying levels of difficulty or challenge.
4. What are the most frequently employed platforms for game playing?
The most common platforms for playing video games are personal computers, gaming
consoles, and mobile devices such as smartphones and tablets. Other less common platforms
include virtual reality headsets and dedicated gaming devices such as arcade machines.
5. What is a third-party publisher?
A third-party publisher is a company that creates and distributes video games developed by
other companies or independent developers. They are not affiliated with the console
manufacturers or the original creators of the game, but rather work to distribute and market the
game to consumers.
6. How are movie studios and game developers similar in their efforts to reduce the
financial risks involved in creating their products?
Both movie studios and game developers face significant financial risks in creating new
products. To mitigate these risks, they often rely on pre-existing franchises or established
properties, invest heavily in marketing and promotion, and work to build brand recognition and
loyalty among consumers.
7. How does product placement occur in games?
Product placement in games can occur in a variety of ways, including in-game advertisements,
branded content, and sponsorships. These can take the form of in-game billboards or product
placements, as well as branded items that players can purchase or use in the game.
8. What are the different forms of advergaming?
Advergaming is a type of advertising that involves creating video games that promote a
particular product or brand. Some common forms of advergaming include ad-supported games,
branded mini-games, and games that are fully sponsored by a particular brand.
9. What is advocacy gaming?
Advocacy gaming refers to games that are created with the specific purpose of promoting a
particular social or political message or cause. These games can range from simple educational
games to more complex and immersive experiences that aim to raise awareness about
important issues or inspire social change.
10. What are the levels of the ESRB rating system?
The ESRB rating system is used to provide consumers with information about the content of
video games. It includes five primary ratings: Early Childhood (EC), Everyone (E), Teen (T),
Mature (M), and Adults Only (AO). These ratings are based on factors such as violence,
language, sexual content, and drug use.
“Mushroom Quest” Proposal
"Mushroom Quest" is a puzzle game that takes place in a magical forest filled with a variety of
mushrooms. Players take on the role of a curious adventurer who sets out on a quest to collect
different types of mushrooms while learning about their unique properties and uses.
The game consists of a series of increasingly challenging puzzle levels. Each level requires
players to use their problem-solving skills to navigate through the forest and collect specific
types of mushrooms. Along the way, players must avoid obstacles and enemies while using
their knowledge of different types of mushrooms to overcome challenges.
The game appeals to puzzle game enthusiasts and nature lovers alike. It provides a fun and
educational experience that encourages players to learn about different types of mushrooms
and their uses. Colorful graphics and an immersive environment make it especially appealing to
players who enjoy exploring new worlds and discovering hidden secrets.
The target audience for "Mushroom Quest" is puzzle game enthusiasts and nature lovers
between the ages of 10-50. The game's challenging levels and diverse range of mushrooms to
collect make it an ideal choice for players who enjoy using their problem-solving skills to
overcome challenges. Additionally, players who are interested in nature and the environment will
appreciate the educational aspect of the game, as it encourages them to learn about different
types of mushrooms and their uses.
Overall, "Mushroom Quest" is a game that provides an engaging and educational experience for
players who are interested in puzzles and nature. With its challenging levels and diverse range
of mushrooms to collect, the game offers something for puzzle enthusiasts of all ages.