Previous Work
In 2008, Daniel completed a major piece of research in his B.A. Honours year thesis in the field of Cultural Studies at the University of Melbourne. For this work, Daniel was awarded First Class Honours. The thesis was recently published at industry website GameCareerGuide.com, and may be viewed online.
Abstract:
The study of videogames is still evolving. While many theorists have accurately described aspects of the medium, this thesis seeks to move the study of videogames away from previously formal approaches and towards a holistic method of engagement with the experience of playing videogames. Therefore, I propose that videogames are best conceptualized as navigable, spatial texts. This approach, based on Michel de Certeau's concept of strategies and tactics, illuminates both the textual structure of videogames and the immediate experience of playing them. I also regard videogame space as paramount. My close analysis of Portal (Valve Corporation, 2007) demonstrates that a designer can choose to communicate rules and fiction, and attempt to influence the behavior of players through strategies of space. Therefore, I aim to plot the relationship between designer and player through the power structures of the videogame, as conceived through this new lens.
Current work
Daniel is currently undertaking the Master of Arts by Research in the field of Cinema Studies at the University of Melbourne. The thesis will focus on cross-media perspectives of videogames.
Daniel is also preparing a number of works for publication in academic journals.