superheroes game

Superheroes Module Instructions and Diary Questions

Introduction Superheroes are often idealized as the best of society. While they don't exist in real life, fiction has created a variety of characters that should demonstrate the best of humanity. In this module, you will play through a game where the gallant hero saves the world. However, not all is as perfect as it seems. Heroes often deal with moral dilemmas and difficult choices. After playing through the games, you will read about the role of antiheroes in fiction. You will also read about representation in comic books. I especially recommend playing through Batman: Arkham City. It is, in the view of at least one ISS 325 team member, the best superhero video game of all time. Assigned Readings -jason-dittman-on-superheroes-and-facism** -Burke need superheroes -Johnson Black Panther Role Model -Kinnaird Anti-hero -Later Captain America -Logan Kamala Khan -Martin Antihero -Nelson Miss Fury -Schulte Black Panther ** Note: This is an audio file that you’ll need to listen to Game Options (Choose 1) Batman: Arkham City Summary: In this action title, Batman is incarcerated in Arkham City, a new super-prison that houses all the super villains in a single area. In this adventure, Batman faces a myriad of different villains in an open-world environment. The game is known for its tight fighting mechanics, engaging character development, and fun gliding mechanics. It also features detective-like gameplay where Batman must solve short puzzles to learn new information on crimes. Batman: Arkham City is available on PS3, Xbox 360, Wii U, and via backwards compatibility on Xbox One. Batman: The Telltale Series Summary: In a departure from other superhero games, Telltale’s take on Batman isn’t an action game. Instead, this version of Batman is an adventure game where the story is more important than the action. Here, players will select dialogue options to interact with characters and choose a story of their own creation. Rather than fighting bad guys constantly, Telltale’s story gives equal weighting to the lives of both Bruce Wayne and Batman. As a result, this game is recommended for players looking for a far more relaxing or story-driven experience. (continued on next page)

Spider-Man (PS4) game Summary: Swing across New York as Spider-Man in this open-world beat-em-up. In this adventure, Spider-Man faces supervillains including William Fisk, Mister Negative, and others. His webs not only give Spider-Man an advantage in combat, but allow players to quickly swing across the entirety of the city with ease. Not only is the gameplay fluid, but the story has been praised for being well- written and relatable. Spider-Man is available exclusively on PS4. Reading Diary Questions 1) Do you think anti-heroes are a positive or negative influence in our media? Are anti-heroes more

interesting than regular superheroes? Use at least three specific quotes from the readings to justify your argument.

2) Several of the readings talk about diversity among superheroes. Please talk about your views on diversity within superhero media, using at least two quotes from the readings. Carefully read the Schulte and Frederick article on the Black Panther. The authors specifically talk about the comics reinforcing stereotypes about minority characters. Give a thoughtful response to this claim using at least one quote from the paper.

3) What are the benefits of superhero media according to the authors? Cite at least three arguments

made by the authors and why you agree or disagree with each one.