"I am sorry if I have ever given you guys any crap": the communicative practices within Telltale Games' online forums. Issue 3 (27th May 2021)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Bell, Kristina
• Is Part Of: Critical studies in media communication. Volume 38:Issue 3(2021)
• Page Start: 225
• Page End: 239
• Publication Date: 2021-05-27
• Subjects: The Walking Dead -- content analysis -- qualitative -- video games -- online forums; Mass media -- Periodicals; 302.2305
• DOI: 10.1080/15295036.2021.1895440
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 1529-5036

Abstract

ABSTRACT: This study is an interpretative, qualitative content analysis of the communicative practice within Telltale Games' online forums for The Walking Dead video game, a choice-based game with non-stereotypical characters that prioritizes group-communication and conflict resolution. The aim of this study is to determine the community's culture and explore how moderation and forum rules influence the discussions. Chris Paul's wordplay is applied to understand how the words found in and around the game, the design of the forums, and the play of the game influence the communication within the forums. The study found that Telltale's moderation practices worked to minimize harassment and create a congenial culture; however, there were still some microaggressions and minor conflict. There is discussion about how the people, technological affordances, the game, and gamer culture contribute to the discourse found in the online community.