A brief history of videogames

1) What were the first video games like?

Simple, built on machines used for war, then transition to coin-based entertainment in arcades

2) How have videogames changed over time?

More complex and built and played on higher level power machines

3) What do the most successful games have in common? Answer this in as much detail as you can. Think about audience pleasures - what do people like about playing videogames?

An addicting and repetitive nature that provides comfort or entertainment to its consumer

4) What criticisms have been made towards videogames?

Addicting nature and risks of staying in front of a screen for too long

Read this Guardian feature from when Fortnite first became sensationally popular and watch the original trailer below.



Now answer the following questions:

1) At the time of the article, how many Fortnite players were there worldwide? (Bonus question - how many are there now? Try Googling it.)

There were 200 million, now there are only 30 million

2) Why is it so popular? What are the audience pleasures of the game?

It is free to play across multiple devices and is a cartoony themed shooter with no blood or gore so it appeals to young people. Along with this, many viral dances and cool outfits have been added into the game which also appeal to younger audiences. The nature of eliminating other players with powerful weapons and mass publicity from people who stream the game online make it very successful.

3) Why might some people criticise Fortnite?

Using guns and violence