Let’s Play Politics: Multiplayer Computer Games as a Communicative Political Technology

Computer games have evolved beyond mere entertainment or escapism, becoming increasingly politicized within contemporary society. This transformation reflects several key trends: the growing number and diversification of gamers worldwide, the creation of alternative platforms for cross-­border social interactions, and the emergence of novel behavior patterns influenced by in-­game experiences. Modern forms of civic engagement exhibit two distinct characteristics: heightened reliance on interactive “new media” channels for communicating demands to political systems via a dual-­layered communication framework, alongside a proliferation of performative elements-so-­called “theatrical practices”-in political discourse. As integrated components of the metaverse, video games now facilitate the intertwining of real-­world and digital environments, rendering them influential tools for policymaking. However, this convergence may exacerbate societal tensions due to reduced geographical separation and diminished opportunities for face-­to-face dialogue among diverse social strata. Additionally, the inherent nature of gaming-its playful and simulated aspects-alters ethical norms governing communication, freeing participants from constraints imposed by reality while enabling unusual conduct unseen in conventional settings. Consequently, it becomes imperative to explore whether increased regulation of player activities within these virtual domains might emerge over time. Ultimately, though structured similarly to conventional modes of political involvement, the primary objective remains securing control and maintaining authority in both online and offline contexts.