ANT 437/AAS 437, “Gaming Blackness: The Anthropology of Video Games and Race”, taught by Dr. Akil Fletcher, took an experiential learning trip to Tokyo, Japan this fall. The course which focuses on racial representation, narrative, and gameplay in video games—traveled to Japan to explore Japanese history and gaming culture. By visiting arcades in Akihabara, museums in Asakusa, and executives at Sony Interactive, the trip placed what the students learned about race and gaming into a global context. Specifically helping students to understand the differences and similarities between U.S and Japanese video game markets and how the two go about creating different and unique stories enjoyed by both audiences.

The Humanities Council, the Department of Anthropology, the Council on Science and Technology, and the Office of International Programs provided funding towards this initiative.