HIST 388: Topics in European History

HIST 388-003: History and Video Games
(Spring 2026)

03:00 PM to 04:15 PM TR

Horizon Hall 5018

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Section Information for Spring 2026

What does history look like when you can play it? From dying of dysentery on the Oregon Trail to building empires in Civilization or parkouring across Renaissance Florence in Assassin’s Creed II, video games shape how millions of people imagine the past. As one of the most popular media in the world, games don’t just entertain—they invite players to re-create, re-interpret, and even rewrite history. This course investigates how history is mediated through video games with a focus on the medieval and Renaissance periods, combining theoretical readings with hands-on analysis and play. Together we will ask: What does it mean to depict history interactively? How do mechanics, narrative, and design choices shape the stories games tell about the past? Students will play and analyze titles such as Europa Universalis, Age of Empires, and Assassin’s Creed: Shadows, while also engaging with scholarship on history and digital media. Assignments will include reviews, critical reflections, and a final project in which students design their own proposal for a historically inspired game.

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Course Information from the University Catalog

Credits: 3

Study of historical topics or periods of special interest. Notes: Topics announced in advance. May be repeated for credit when topic is different. Offered by History & Art History. May be repeated within the term.
Specialized Designation: Topic Varies
Schedule Type: Lecture
Grading:
This course is graded on the Undergraduate Regular scale.

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