Why Video Game Genres Fail: A Classificatory Analysis. (July 2017)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Clarke, Rachel Ivy; Lee, Jin Ha; Clark, Neils
• Is Part Of: Games and culture. Volume 12:Number 5(2017)
• Page Start: 445
• Page End: 465
• Publication Date: 2017-07
• Subjects: video games -- classification -- genre theory -- genre history -- information systems; Games -- Social aspects -- Periodicals; Video games -- Social aspects -- Periodicals; Computer games -- Social aspects -- Periodicals; Interactive multimedia -- Social aspects -- Periodicals; 303.4834
• DOI: 10.1177/1555412015591900
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 1555-4120

Abstract

This article explores the current affordances and limitations of video game genre from a library and information science perspective with an emphasis on classification theory. We identify and discuss various purposes of genre relating to video games, including identity, collocation and retrieval, commercial marketing, and educational instruction. Through the use of examples, we discuss the ways in which these purposes are supported by genre classification and conceptualization and the implications for video games. Suggestions for improved conceptualizations such as family resemblances, prototype theory, faceted classification, and appeal factors for video game genres are considered, with discussions of strengths and weaknesses. This analysis helps inform potential future practical applications for describing video games at cultural heritage institutions such as libraries, museums, and archives, as well as furthering the understanding of video game genre and genre classification for game studies at large.