The Grounds of Gaming

This book examines the physical spaces of gaming and their impact on inclusivity. The Grounds of Gaming offers insights into making gaming more welcoming for all.

How do we create inclusive spaces for video games in our everyday environments? The Grounds of Gaming delves into the often overlooked physical contexts where gaming occurs, revealing the barriers that persist for many individuals. Despite efforts to broaden the appeal of gaming beyond its traditional demographics, these spaces frequently remain unwelcoming and unsafe for diverse audiences.

In this insightful exploration, author Nicholas Taylor draws from extensive fieldwork to examine a variety of settings where games are played, observed, and created. From the cozy corners of domestic gaming setups to the bustling atmosphere of esports arenas, The Grounds of Gaming highlights the nuanced dynamics of these environments. Taylor's analysis extends to campus computer labs and convention centers, illustrating how these spaces reflect and perpetuate gaming's complex cultural politics.

By situating gaming within its physical and social contexts, The Grounds of Gaming challenges readers to rethink the intersection of games, place, and identity. The book provides valuable theoretical insights and practical strategies aimed at fostering inclusivity within gaming cultures and industries, ultimately advocating for a more welcoming and diverse gaming landscape. Through this lens, Taylor encourages a critical examination of who is allowed to participate in gaming and how we can collectively work towards a more equitable future.