https://doi.org/10.67147/literariness.v1i1.022
The Game, Player and the Psyche: A Ludological Perspective on Gamification in Ready Player One
DR. GAYATHRI S.
Assistant Professor
Department of English
Sree Vidyadhiraja NSS College, Vazhoor, Kerala
Abstract: In the new age of virtual reality having a cutting edge on the anthropocene existence, gaming, addiction and the rallying cry for a careful reality based life pattern are routine affairs. Concerns regarding the psychological changes an individual undergoes while getting immersed in online gaming platforms are relevant. However, at the same time the digital natives finding a niche for their active life on online platforms are subsequently justified.Based on Ernest Cline’s book, Ready Player One by Steven Spielberg seamlessly combines gaming, virtual reality, and the blending of the real and digital worlds. Ready Player One is both a celebration and a critique of gaming culture, design, and the significance of the social impact of interactive media. Ludology is a sub-field of game studies that focuses more on the mechanics and systems of games than on their story or storytelling elements. It focuses on player agency, gameplay mechanics, and the immersive potential of virtual environments. Ludology sheds light on the design, play, and cultural relevance of games by emphasizing their systematic character and underscoring their importance beyond obvious enjoyment. The film explores the concept of identity within the OASIS, where users can craft and embody avatars different from their physical selves, raising questions about authenticity and self-representation in virtual spaces. The article attempts to bridge the gap focusing on the user interactive phase of virtual reality giving due attention to the psychological impact of gaming platforms on both individual and collective level.
Keywords: ludology, gaming, psychology, virtual platforms
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