DD101 VS - Critical Play (Fall 2026)

Wilfrid Laurier University • Unorganized Rainy River, ON

17h • Remote

About The Position

This course introduces students to the concept of critical play. To play a game critically means deconstructing the ideas, beliefs, and values a game conveys through its mechanics (i.e. actions within the game), dynamics (i.e. interactions within the game), and aesthetics (i.e. the look and feel of the game). Students will play various analog and digital games, read theory and criticism of games as a communicative art form, and write critical commentary on games. This introduction to critical play will provide a foundation for subsequent courses in critical game design.

Requirements

• Master’s degree or PhD in Literature, Communication, Media Studies, Game Studies, Cultural Studies or related topics.
• Specialization in Game studies.
• Writing in a professional capacity.
• CV (Maximum of 10 pages, with 12-point font and 2.54 cm margins).
• Candidate Application Form (CAF).
• Names and Contact Information for Referees (for external applicants).
• Evidence of Good Teaching (for external applicants).
• Verification of highest degree (for external applicants).

Nice To Haves

• Cover Letter (Optional).
• Sample Course Outline (Optional).
• Teaching Dossier and/or relevant supplementary documentation (Maximum of 25 pages in total, with 12-point font and 2.54 cm margins).

Responsibilities

• Deconstructing the ideas, beliefs, and values a game conveys through its mechanics, dynamics, and aesthetics.
• Playing various analog and digital games.
• Reading theory and criticism of games as a communicative art form.
• Writing critical commentary on games.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Part-time
• Career Level: Entry Level