If you’ve landed on this post, chances are you’re something of a gamer. You probably don’t need to be told that the video game industry has grown into quite a big deal over the past ten years or so, now dwarfing the television and film worlds combined. However, when it comes to the complexities and inner workings of the gaming world, there are always new pieces of loot to uncover. That’s why we here at Gamelevate have compiled some of our favorite video game books that every self-respecting gamer should pick up and read.
Console Wars: Sega, Nintendo, And The Battle that Defined A Generation By Blake J. Harris
The rivalry between Sega and Nintendo is one of the most infamous battles in the gaming world, defining the landscape of the 1990s. In his acclaimed book, ‘Console Wars,’ author Blake J. Harris gives readers a behind-the-scenes look at how the small-time Sega took on the behemoth Nintendo and revolutionized the industry forever.
Based on over two hundred interviews Harris conducted with individuals on both sides of the rivalry, ‘Console Wars’ is a business thriller that reminisces about brothers facing off, Sonic going up against Mario, and Japan taking on the US for supremacy in the gaming market. Not only is it a fascinating look back at one of the defining points in the gaming industry, but ‘Console Wars’ is also full of business tips, strategies, and tactics that are still utilized by the big players today.
Blood, Sweat, And Pixels: The Triumphant, Turbulent Stories Behind How Video Games Are Made By Jason Schreier
A national bestseller by Jason Schreier, ‘Blood, Sweat, and Pixels’ offers a fascinating look at the small joys and common despair that go into making a video game. Nowadays, video games are expected to have the visual appeal of a major blockbuster flick and the storytelling power of a memoir or television series. Some even dub the development of these pieces of art as a ‘fool’s errand.’
Schreier explores the artistic challenges, technical impossibilities, marketplace demands, and Donkey Kong-styled wrenches being thrown into the works, immersing readers into the inner machinations of development. From Microsoft being nearly ripped apart by the pursuit of perfection with Destiny to Eric Barone’s attempts to reintroduce country living in Stardew Valley and the never-ending nightmares involved with Dragon Age: Inquisition, ‘Blood, Sweat, and Pixels’ is a love letter to the unsung heroes of development hell. It shows that every game making it to the market is nothing short of a miracle.
Reality Is Broken: Why Games Make Us Better And How They Can Change the World By Jane McGonigal
Ever wondered why gaming makes us feel good? With more than 31 million people in the UK alone confessing to being gamers and young individuals accumulating over 10,000 hours in the server before the age of twenty-one, the impact of gaming is substantial. Drawing on positive psychology, cognitive science, and sociology, Jane McGonigal’s ‘Reality is Broken’ attempts to demonstrate how video games have become adept at fulfilling our genuine human needs.
As one of the best Esports books for understanding how gaming encourages collaboration, problem-solving, and resilience, this groundbreaking resource explores how video games can be used as a tool for driving positive societal change, be it in our own lives, communities, or businesses. The result is a convincing argument that the future will belong to those who can understand, build, and play games.
Extra Lives: Why Video Games Matter By Tom Bissell
Tom Bissell, a prize-winning author and avid gamer, presents a compelling argument about the significance and importance of the video game industry in his book, ‘Extra Lives.’ First published in 2010, Bissell’s book is a vibrant and hilarious critique of all how games can dazzle as well as frustrate, exploring why this art form is so widely misunderstood outside of its community.
Bissell curates portraits of some of the most impactful video game visionaries, delves into the heart of video game design and development, and reflects on the lasting imprint games have on our culture and storytelling abilities. Whether readers love or loathe video games, Extra Lives is a compelling and well-researched collection of essays that demand to be read.
Jacked: The Outlaw Story of Grand Theft Auto – David Kushner
Since its first release in 1997, Rockstar’s Grand Theft Auto franchise has become one of the most iconic in the video game industry. However, it’s also become one of the most infamous. The entire history of its trailblazing successes and most legendary controversies is condensed into one enthralling read by David Kushner in Jacked.
From pioneering the use of 3D graphics and enlisting the vocal performances of Hollywood actors to being accused of promoting racial stereotypes and encouraging crime on a massive scale, the book is a memoir behind Rockstar’s constant ambition and innovations, helping every release of a GTA title to feel like a defining moment in the history of video gaming.
Extra Lives: Why Video Games Matter By Tom Bissell
Tom Bissell, a prize-winning author and avid gamer, presents a compelling argument about the significance and importance of the video game industry in his book, ‘Extra Lives.’ First published in 2010, Bissell’s book is a passionate and hilarious critique of all how games can dazzle as well as frustrate, exploring why this art form is so widely misunderstood outside of its community.
Bissell curates portraits of some of the most impactful video game visionaries, delves into the heart of video game design and development, and reflects on the lasting imprint games have on our culture and storytelling abilities. Whether readers love or loathe video games, Extra Lives is a compelling and well-researched collection of essays that demand to be read.
