Bible and Video Games (ONLINE COURSE)

Online program

The video game industry is big business. It seems to be focused on economy only. In fact, however, modern-day video games contain many religious elements. Developers use large quantities of elements from Christian traditions for the building of their game world and lore (the Darksiders trilogy would be a very good example). The way in which games utilize elements from religions from outside the game and/or the creation of purely fictional religions (Dishonored series) and sects, can vary from material and referential (Assassin’s Creed series) to reflexive (The Talos Principle) and ritual uses (Bioshock Infinite). Other games implicitly or explicitly criticize institutionalized religion (Far Cry 5). Using religious elements, they try convey a world view in which humans are more than just consumers, but have to take their responsibility for e.g. creation (Talos Principle).

Upon completion of this course, you will:

• have a better understanding of how religion functions within video game;
• have a broader understanding of how religious traditions are influencing the cultural domain of our time;
• be able to academically study both religion and video games through the use of multiple hermeneutical instruments.

This course is for students with a passion for gaming and a curious mind. Moderate English proficiency required.