The aim of this article is to present an updated version of our previous theory of gameplay. “Gameplay” is a term often used without a clear definition or consistent application. In this article, we propose categorizing gameplay into three distinct yet interconnected layers: the first emphasizing temporality, the second highlighting spatiality, and the third pinpointing emotion as anchor point. Our model and understanding are influenced by the philosophy of phenomenology, particularly Husserl's objective examination of the first-person perspective in perceptual experience—a commendable approach for blending formalism with real-time experience without resorting to subjectivism or psychologism. We offer an analytical and methodological framework for understanding gameplay, relying on micro-tensions to elucidate gameplay as a structural entity as well as an experiential phenomenon. As we shall demonstrate, micro-tensions are present within each of the three layers, paving the way for the entirety of gameplay—referred to by gamers as “great gameplay.”

Lasse Juel Larsen

Bo Kampmann Walther

Games and Culture

Games and Culture publishes innovative theoretical and empirical research about games and culture within the context of interactive media. The journal serves as a premiere outlet for groundbreaking and germinal work in the field of game studies. The journal"s scope includes the sociocultural, political, and economic dimensions of gaming from a wide variety of perspectives, including textual analysis, political economy, cultural studies, ethnography, critical race studies, gender studies, media studies, public policy, international relations, and communication studies.

Games and Culture publishes innovative theoretical and empirical research about games and culture within the context of interactive media. The journal serves as a premier outlet for groundbreaking and foundational work in the field of game studies. Its scope includes the sociocultural, political, and economic dimensions of gaming, explored from a variety of perspectives, including textual analysis, political economy, cultural studies, ethnography, critical race studies, gender studies, media studies, public policy, international relations, and communication studies.

《Games and Culture》期刊发表关于游戏与文化的创新理论和实证研究，特别是在互动媒体的背景下。该期刊是游戏研究领域开创性和基础性工作的首要出版平台。期刊的范围涵盖了游戏的社会文化、政治和经济维度，采用多种视角进行探讨，包括文本分析、政治经济学、文化研究、民族志、批判种族研究、性别研究、媒体研究、公共政策、国际关系和传播研究。

Category	Quartile
文学	2
文学, 文化研究	2
文学, 传播学	4

Gameplay 2.0: Toward a New Theory

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Journal Info

Category	Quartile
CULTURAL STUDIES	1