AP/ANTH 4760 Archaeology and Playing with the Past: Archaeogaming
Course Offering Winter 2027
This course explores games and play from the perspective of archaeology. It includes the evidence for play in the archaeological record, the representation of the past and archaeologists in games, and the complex relationships we form with the past through popular media. A variety of tabletop roleplaying, digital, and board games will be played in class as we examine both products and perspectives on archaeological reception, misconceptions, and the real-world effect games can have on marginalized and racialized peoples.
Through the lens of play, we will explore how archaeological interpretation is a form of storytelling and worldbuilding, not dissimilar to the creative imagining of fantasy worlds at the heart of roleplaying games. We will also cover archaeological methods and how they have been co-opted or replicated within playful settings, as well as how virtual places and peoples have been studied through the traditional techniques of the discipline. To engage with important academic and popular discussions, this course critically evaluates the legacies of colonialism and exclusion that are essential for understanding both archaeology and commercial games today. At the same time, we will look at how play can powerfully confront and resist these legacies through anti-colonial, feminist, and queer perspectives that are being brought to the gaming table, field, and classroom.
Given that games are primarily social activities, students are expected to come prepared to interact with others and play the provided games. We will focus heavily on tabletop roleplaying (TTRPG) and boardgames while in class, such as It was Never Yours, Coyote & Crow, Unboxed, and Secrets in the Sand. We will also look at digital games, such as Assassin's Creed Origins and ARI: Archaeological Research Initiative. For those interested in game industry experience, this course will offer the opportunity to practice elements of professional review, consultation, and game development.