Reaction to Week 9

I feel as though some interactive fiction/video games can be considered literature.  Most video games in today’s society involve violence and drugs and are rarely put into nice light. Obesity rates have soared over the past couple of years and a lot of blame has been put on the television, mainly video games. Violence and aggression has risen in children who play video games more than other, as well.  So the idea of video games being considered, “interactive fiction” is a bit of a stretch.  I do feel as though, Zork, one of this week’s readings could be categorized as a video game that involved interactive fiction.

 

As the player/reader starts, they are first tested in the department of patience. Trying to figure out how to successfully play the game is half the game. The user inputs commands for their character to do. Unlike many video games this one does not contain images or pictures to help the user follow, this is strictly reading is logical thinking, which unlike books, stimulates the brain in many ways.  There are different levels as you make your way through the game, different objects to pocket and many Easter eggs to be found.

 

I surprisingly enjoyed Zork, compared to other interactive fiction we have looked at in class. Though I was frustrated more than satisfied throughout the game, I feel as though it was an interesting story, with many different paths to be taken. It is nearly impossible to play the same game twice, which is an advantage over your ordinary book. If more video games were presented in a way that Zork is, I feel that video games wouldn’t be held in the light that they are. Overall, interactive fiction/video games can be resourceful if composed and used the right way.