gamemeaning
Gamemeaning is a concept in game studies referring to the meanings, values, and interpretations that arise from playing, designing, or analyzing a game. It encompasses both the intended messages embedded by creators and the meanings constructed by players through interaction with mechanics, narratives, and aesthetics.
Meanings emerge from multiple strands: formal mechanics (rules, goals, feedback), narrative elements (story, character, world), aesthetics
Researchers study gamemeaning through textual and semiotic analysis of game content, reception studies, player interviews, ethnography
Games may convey ethical questions (Papers, Please), political commentary (speculative or dystopian titles), emotional states (stress,
Critics note that gamemeaning is inherently subjective and influenced by audience, culture, and power relations. The
See also: game studies, ludology, narratology, game aesthetics, player reception, interactivity.