Situational analysis as a method for qualitative inquiry of games

Abstract

This article presents a sketch for a methodology for situational analysis of games. Situational analysis is a research practice originating in the social sciences. It is based on grounded theory and inspired by post-modern theory. This article argues that situational analysis is a fruitful approach to game analysis, as it addresses key challenges in game analysis: how to contain the dynamicity, heterogeneity, and composite quality of games, and how to make sense of the analyst’s position. It bypasses the distinction between analysis of games as objects and analysis of what players do and has a distinct focus on the role of materiality. The article will consist of two parts. Part one offers a discussion of current problems in game analysis and the potential of situational analysis. Part two offers a case study of a situational analysis of three play sessions of a selected game.