Game Play

Booth's approach demonstrates exemplary textual analysis of games ... This book is that rare combination of solid critical methodologies alongside such clear enthusiasm for the subject matter that anyone with an interest in the hobby could enjoy just as easily as those in the academic fields of Game, Media or Film Studies. * Intensities: The Journal of Cult Media *
Having chosen a Cylon Leader character, Booth commandeers a fine act of infiltration, working licensed board games' way into the Galactica of media studies, showing exactly how and why it matters - both by itself and as an outgrowth of other media properties - as successfully as an unchecked centurion edging down the boarding party track on its way to certain victory. Highly recommended. * Jonathan Gray, Professor of Media and Cultural Studies, University of Wisconsin-Madison, USA, and author of Show Sold Separately: Promos, Spoilers, and Other Media Paratexts *
Licensed board games based on popular media franchises have long been considered bereft of creative output, if they were considered at all. Paul Booth challenges that assumption by delving deeply and respectfully into that world, arguing for more nuanced considerations of board games as paratextual adaptations of their respective universes. Bringing together studies of fandom, media universes and games, Game Play offers a sustained and rewarding examination of contemporary licensed board games. * Mia Consalvo, Professor and Canada Research Chair in Game Studies and Design, Concordia University, Canada *
Paul Booth's Game Play: Paratextuality in Contemporary Board Games is a ground-breaking piece of work. Demonstrating a keen eye for detail, critical analysis and genuine affection for the art of play Booth has produced a much-needed book that shines light on an often overlooked area of popular culture. With chapters on major franchise board games like Star Trek and The Lord of the Rings and those based on acclaimed weird fiction writer H.P. Lovecraft Game Play offers us new ways of understanding the joys and social practices of board game culture. Fans and scholars alike will want to read this - and then go break out the dice! * Lincoln Geraghty, Reader in Popular Media Cultures, University of Portsmouth, UK *