Trivial pursuits? Serious (video) games and the media representation of refugees

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Abstract

This article critically analyses the representational practices of serious (video) games that focus on refugees. It argues that the technological form of serious games can simulate the historical, political and socio-economic factors that shape why refugees leave their home country and their experiences when travelling to host countries. They are able to mobilise intellectual agendas which challenge the de-contextualised representations of refugees typical in traditional media. As such, they challenge players to critically reflect on the complexities of refugee experiences and politics, thereby presenting a potential to move away from grand emotional discourses of pity and compassion.
Original languageEnglish
JournalThird World Quarterly
Volume39
Issue number3
Early online date28 Nov 2017
DOIs
Publication statusPublished - Nov 2017

Research Beacons, Institutes and Platforms

  • Humanitarian and Conflict Response Institute

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