December 4, 2003

Utopian Gaming?

by Scott Rettberg · , 8:58 pm

A link off of Grimmelman’s article led me to the curious AgoraXchange project, which will launch in January. A team including net artist Natalie Bookchin and political theorist Jacqueline Stevens is behind the project, the goal of which is to create an MMG that poses an “alternative to the present world order” guided by four decrees that include the abolition of inherited property rights. The ambition of the project appears to be to create a game that will be instructive in reshaping global society. While such a simulation is unlikely to overthrow capitalism, the idea is a refreshing turn from many MMGs that seem hell-bent on promoting the acquisition of virtual wealth as the highest virtue to which gamers can aspire.

2 Responses to “Utopian Gaming?”


  1. Bill Crosbie Says:

    An interesting side note on AgoraXchange.

    The project was presented in a very early form at the recent State of Play conference at NY Law School. An interesting summation of some of the paradoxes of Agora’s founder’s approach is summarized at TerraNova – Facism is Fun Enjoy the read!

  2. Water Cooler Games Says:
    Utopia, MMG-style
    A new “repository” for ideas on an alternative world order is up at agoraXchange. Scott Rettberg from Grand Text Auto wonders if … …the idea is a refreshing turn from many MMGs that seem hell-bent on promoting the acquisition of…

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