Introduction: A Literary Studies/Games Studies Conversation

This introduction to a special issue of Games and Culture explores the interdisciplinary intersection between literary studies and game studies. Originating from a series of events organized by the Leverhulme International Network for Contemporary Studies, the text argues that both fields share significant conceptual ground, particularly regarding the definition of the "contemporary," the formation of canons, and the challenges of pedagogy. By bridging these disciplines, the authors seek to move beyond reductive stereotypes and foster a more collaborative academic environment that integrates the humanities with game design and development.

The analysis highlights several key areas of convergence, including the nature of authorship in collaborative media, the role of theory in practice-based learning, and the influence of genre literature on video game narratives. A central finding is that both literary and game studies suffer from fragmented, dehistoricized learning, which could be mitigated by shared methodologies and increased cross-disciplinary dialogue. The authors note that while literary scholars often look to other disciplines for theoretical frameworks, game studies has experienced an accelerated evolution that necessitates a more robust, shared infrastructure for research and exchange.

The scope of this inquiry is international, drawing on academic perspectives from the University of St Andrews, the University of Glasgow, and Abertay University. The methodology relies on synthesis from interdisciplinary conferences and collaborative exchanges between scholars and practitioners. To address the current lack of formal infrastructure, the authors propose practical solutions, such as creating an online register for collaborative networking and developing a shared glossary of terms. Ultimately, the work emphasizes that successful interdisciplinary progress requires a cooperative approach, where scholars and developers leverage their complementary skills to advance both fields.