Enroll Course: https://www.coursera.org/learn/interactive-media-gaming
The course ‘Online Games: Literature, New Media, and Narrative’ on Coursera is a compelling journey into how stories evolve across different media, especially in the context of massively multiplayer online games (MMOs). Designed for both newcomers and seasoned gamers, this university-level class offers a rich exploration of storytelling, game theory, and media remediation through a literary lens. The syllabus covers a diverse range of topics including the history and culture of gaming, the adaptation of Tolkien’s works into digital formats, and the use of space and time in storytelling across media.
What makes this course stand out is its analytical approach, utilizing key concepts from game theory and media studies, such as remediation, to understand how familiar stories like The Lord of the Rings are transformed within MMOs. The course also makes insightful comparisons between literature, film, and video games, offering a multi-faceted perspective that enhances our understanding of narrative and media.
The modules dedicated to Tolkien’s works and Spenser’s ‘The Faerie Queene’ are particularly engaging, illustrating how classical literature is remediated and reinterpreted in contemporary digital environments. The final discussions on game design, including the challenges of crafting satisfying end-games, provide valuable insights into the evolving nature of interactive storytelling.
I highly recommend this course to anyone interested in literature, media studies, or gaming. It’s perfect for students, educators, writers, or gamers looking to deepen their understanding of how narrative functions across different platforms. By the end of the course, you’ll gain a new appreciation for how stories adapt and what that means for the future of storytelling in the digital age.
Enroll Course: https://www.coursera.org/learn/interactive-media-gaming