Friday May 7, 2010, 1-3 pm: Noah Wardrip-Fruin, “Meaning What We Play: Games, Fiction, and Expressive Processing”
(5826 Mathematical Sciences Building)

Today’s games have well-developed models of spatial movement, combat, and economics. But their models of fiction barely deserve the name. Even those supporting the most ambitious games are burdensome and bug-prone for authors – while providing the player quite limited ranges of meaningful choice. This talk discusses examples of more dynamic approaches to fiction, considering lessons past work presents for designers wishing to craft models that express their visions for playable fiction. At the same time, the talk argues that critics need to begin to interpret the computational processes of computer games (and digital media generally) and connect them to an understanding of audience experience.

The event will be open to all, but because seating will be limited, please RSVP to David Shepard (dshepard@ucla.edu) if you will be attending.

Additionally, on Monday, May 10, 2010, 4-6pm, in Humanities Building 193, Wardrip-Fruin will present some of his more recent, unpublished research for discussion. All are welcome to attend.