Lab+1+-+Are+Video+Games+Mass+Media


 * Are Video Games Mass Media?**



Mass Media is a growing dynamic, intertwining load of information; in turn it connects different types of electronics to entertainment. As years go by, technology grows and with it the deliverance of all types of mass media becomes easily accessible. With accessibility comes connectivity to others who share the same purpose or value in the media type; for example a book club, going to the movies and even communicating through phones. “Mass media is any medium used to transmit mass communication."(Lane, 2007) It is evident that all types of media, Books, newspaper magazine, movies, television and the internet are an example of this communication. Video games have never really been put on the same level or recognition as these global accessed Medias, even though it has accomplished mass communication and accessibility to entertainment.

Video games began before the internet as a small entertainment addition to the TV, through its years companies like Nintendo and Sega have developed and rivaled for that small addition in North American homes. While in the beginnings these small rivalries and basic game systems did not exceed the rank of mass media it definitely grew from there. It can now be stated in today's market and technological growth with both computers and home entertainment systems, that like all other forms of entertainment the video game industry has become the most accessible and connected. A mass multiplayer online game allows connectivity with not just one or two people but everyone across the world and is a common example when defining video games as mass media. If we look at the video game systems today we can see they have achieved a convergence of connectivity delivering not just video games, but also a series of other types of media for entertainment and connectivity.

Microsoft's Xbox live is one of the best services of online gaming in the industry allowing mass connectivity between users to play the scores of games that are monthly released. Behind this are a few other features that are beginning to seep there way into localized entertainment systems. Netflix the online movie store joined with Xbox live allowing users now to rent or buy movies from there home system and watch them on there Xbox, along with this the Xbox dashboard offers new news daily, advertises other companies and acts as a media hub before you play your game. This is a good definition of how video games should be if not already be defined as another mass media conglomerate, the convergence of medias is the same reason why the internet is so widely known to be a global mass media.

Video games differ from conventional music and sound because people are not just watching a TV screen, they are engaging over roles and have power over rules and subjects to complete a mission of challenge. (Fiske 1987:236) This notion is what drives people to play video games, there is a challenge that needs to be accomplished and you are offered all these pieces to solve it. While a movie entertains you for two hours a game makes you focus, challenges you and rewards you when completed.

Video games are catching on because they continue to immerse, satisfy and merge all types of communication on your home TV. The video game online experience allows millions of others to interact with each other and experience the same message all at once, which in turn is similar to that of a movie.