The Story of World of Warcraft: Numbers, People, and Interactions

TLDRThis video tells the story of World of Warcraft, exploring the interaction between numbers and people in video games. It discusses the concept of instrumental play and the pressure to be good at the game. It also delves into the social codes of practice and the negotiation between players and developers.

Key insights

🎮Instrumental play focuses on goals and efficiency in video games.

🤝The interaction between players and developers shapes the game experience.

😕Being good at a game is often considered a desirable goal imposed by social values.

Free play, without specific goals, coexists with instrumental play in World of Warcraft.

💪Success and expertise in World of Warcraft are socially defined and subject to consensus.

Q&A

What is instrumental play?

Instrumental play focuses on goals, efficiency, and achieving outcomes in video games.

How do social codes of practice affect gameplay?

Social codes of practice shape what is considered legitimate play in World of Warcraft and create expectations among players.

Why is there pressure to be good at World of Warcraft?

The pressure to be good at World of Warcraft is driven by societal values that prioritize expertise and success in the game.

Is there room for free play in World of Warcraft?

Yes, free play, which focuses on exploring, roleplaying, and emergent activities, coexists with instrumental play in World of Warcraft.

How is success defined in World of Warcraft?

Success in World of Warcraft is socially defined and subject to consensus among players. It involves meeting certain objectives and skill levels.

Timestamped Summary

00:12This video tells the story of World of Warcraft and explores the interaction between numbers and people in video games.

01:21Instrumental play focuses on goals, efficiency, and finding the best strategies to achieve outcomes.

02:51The pressure to be good at World of Warcraft is a result of social values that prioritize expertise and success in the game.

04:19Free play, without specific goals or objectives, coexists with instrumental play in World of Warcraft.

05:51Success and expertise in World of Warcraft are socially defined and subject to consensus among players.