Game with God

“Games that treat religion realistically, weaving it into the game as it is woven into people’s lives, can provide a richer and more realistic simulation,” says Destination Games founder and Ultima creator Richard Garriott. “Spirituality lends the game world credibility and completeness. The search for meaning in life is universal, and a shallower life of conflict and treasure collecting will never match the strength of a game that includes ethical or spiritual underpinnings.”

While religion and spirituality add a lot to a game world, they often aren’t used effectively. “I don’t think there are any games that treat religion at anything more than a superficial level,” says Firaxis founder, and Civilization creator Sid Meier. While PopTop Software’s Phil Steinmeyer agrees, noting that “Religion is ignored in gaming, or if it is portrayed, it’s wildly caricatured.” —Andrew S. BubGame with God (Gamer Dad)

2 thoughts on “Game with God

  1. Yes, I think the author was definitely thinking of computer/console games. You’re right that other kinds of games can be more specialized in all sorts of areas (including the significance of religion).

  2. It’s hard to be entirely sure, but it seems like you are only considering computer and console games. There are *several* face-to-face games in which religion, faith, and spirituality play a significant part.

    Games set in the world of Glarantha ( http://www.glorantha.com/ ) are a typical example.

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