Table of Contents

Introduction

The State of Video Game Industries

Theoretical Framework and Methodology

Structure of the Book

Acknowledgments

Bibliography

Part A: Frameworks and Foundations

1. Theory of Industrial Storytelling

A Quick Note on Authorship Theory

Paratextuality

Industrial Reflexivity, Para-Industry, and the Shadow Academy

Audiences, Production Trivia, and Production Literacy

Bibliography

2. Production Realities and Reflections

Game Development Roles and Team Composition

Claiming Individual Authorship

Authorship Terminologies and Cinematic Remediation

Conclusions and Alternatives

Bibliography

3. The Many Voices of Industrial Storytelling

The Figurative Line and its Relevance for the Video Game Industry

Corporate Reflexivity

Above-the-Line Reflexivity

Below-the-Line Reflexivity

Competing Agendas in Industrial Reflexivity

Bibliography

Part B: Practices

4. Making-of Materials: Promotion and Commodification

Promotion: Stray Gods’ Making-of as Promotable Facts

Commodification: Art Books

Conclusions: Selling a Story

Bibliography

5. The Game of the Year

Cultural Awards as Industrial Reflexivity

Game Awards and Prizes

The Game Awards: Analysis

The Game Awards as a Venue for Industrial Reflexivity

Bibliography

Conclusion: Dispelling Myths of Industrial Storytelling

Harmful versus Helpful

Obfuscation versus Transparency

Production “Magic”

People versus Brands

Idealization and Vilification of Video Game Companies

Passion Discourse

How to Change the Unsustainable Status Quo

Bibliography

Index