There have been many books written about video games. For instance, there are a bunch of great novels set in the Halo universe. Yet, some video game books aren't as specific as that. They aren't based on one series or game. Instead, they tackle subjects that are more general, such as game development and history.
These books are some of the most fascinating to read, as they typically tell you things that you don't know - unless you happen to be a game developer or gaming historian. That's not to say all of them are great, but the following ones certainly are. In fact, they're the best of their kind.
Masters of Doom
Success can sometimes create turmoil
John Carmack and John Romero are responsible for two of the biggest and most influential series in gaming: Doom and Quake. This book dives into how those titles came to be and the complicated relationship between the people behind them.
- Clearly well-researched
- John Carmack and John Romero's turbulent relationship is compelling
- The story drags a bit
Id Software is one of the most influential video game development companies, due to how the likes of Doom and Quake changed the industry. This book attempts to tell the company's story.
Specifically, it tells the tale of John Carmack and John Romero, who were the main forces behind the games. Their lives and interactions with one another are fascinating and really help this book stand out. Plus, for those not around during the time, the book shows the impact their games had.
Virtual Cities
The perfect book for a virtual traveler
This creative book serves as a travel guide to various video game worlds. It delves into their history, talks about their architecture, and includes everything else you would usually see in a travel guide.
- The whole book is unique
- Presents information in an eye-catching manner
- Includes a large range of video game cities
- Not everyone will agree with the choice of cities
There are many great cities in video games. Yet, there tend to be plenty of things going on when you're in them. Therefore, you don't always have time to appreciate the fantastic worlds you're roaming around.
This is why this book is great; it really delves deep into the most notable cities in gaming. The range is impressive, as there are cities from all sorts of games, including Yakuza 0, The Witcher 3, and Super Mario Odyssey. In total, there are 44 places included in the book.
The Queer Games Avant-Garde
Interesting insights by people who, unfortunately, aren't always given a platform
Gaming hasn't always been perfect when it comes to giving voices to those from the LGBTQ+ community. This book attempts to rectify that by giving developers of different genders and sexualities the platform to speak about the gaming industry.
- Insight provided by a range of different people
- Delves into game development as a whole
- Discusses topics people in gaming don't always talk about
Like in movies and television, representation has long been a heavily discussed topic in gaming. Yet, this book is different from most of the discussions around the topic. It contains interviews with 22 game developers who are a part of the LGBTQ+ community.
They talk about making games and how to incorporate different sexualities and genders into them. The result is plenty of fascinating discussions on topics that developers don't usually talk about.
Console Wars
The '90s console war
Long before the Xbox and PlayStation consoles came onto the scene, Nintendo was involved in another console war. This occurred in the '90s against relative underdog Sega. This book tells the tale of their thrilling rivalry.
- Documents an important era in gaming history
- The story is gripping
- Well-researched
Console wars always seem a bit silly when two groups of fans are going at it. However, it is more serious for the companies themselves, since gaming is a competitive market. This book tells the story of one of the most famous console wars, between Nintendo and Sega. It's told from the side of the latter, and it's presented like a work of fiction with dialog and scenes.
Yet, it has been constructed using real information. Thus, it's like a historical re-enactment. As a result, it feels a little odd to read, but it's a thrilling book nonetheless, due to the interesting subject matter and quality of the writing.
Extra Lives: Why Video Games Matter
Video games are important
If you've ever had to defend your love of video games, then this book is for you. In it, well-regarded writer Tom Bissell attempts to not only explain his love for games but why they are important.
- Well-written
- Includes some detailed case studies
- Most gamers will find it relatable
- Too focused on one person's experience to really prove if video games matter
Most adults who play a lot of games might have had to justify their love for the medium at one point in their lives. It doesn't matter whether you're playing surprisingly serious games or wacky titles, as some will still see you as an adult playing something that is "supposed to be for children."
In this book, author Tom Bissell has used his own experience with gaming to make the argument that games really matter. He does this through various enjoyable case studies and compelling anecdotes. The end product is an enjoyable and relatable book for gamers.
Blood, Sweat, And Pixels
The difficulties of video game development
Making a game is a difficult and stress-inducing prospect. In this book, Jason Schreier attempts to truly show how difficult it is by providing several stories about the creation of some of the biggest games.
- Allows you to see deeper into the game development process
- Includes case studies for a range of titles
- Ideal for anyone into video game development, no matter how much they already know
- Puts too much focus on major studios
Just because somebody plays a lot of games doesn't mean they know the trials and tribulations of making a game. You may have a bit of an idea, but this book by Jason Schreier really delves deep into the development process and how difficult it can be. As a result, it's a fascinating read for anyone interested in the topic.
Also, it includes case studies about several of the most popular and best games in recent memory. So, it's nice to see what went on behind the scenes before these wonderful titles hit the market.
FAQ
Are there any video games based on books?
There are many games based on books. Some of the most famous ones are The Witcher series and the Metro games. Bioshock was even somewhat based on several novels written by Ayn Rand.
Is Assassin's Creed based on a book?
Much of what you see in the Assassin's Creed games is based on a warped version of real history. However, the original title was partially influenced by the novel called Alamut, which was written by Vladimir Bartol.