Decoding 50 Years of Games Through Developer Testimonies: Technology, Game Design, Monetization, and Ethical Dilemmas

Abstract

In this session, three speakers will provide an overview of approximately 50 years of video game history—from the dawn of arcade games to the rise of smartphone games—based on the testimonies of game developers. The history of mainstream video games is divided into seven distinct eras. For each, the speakers will reflect on the evolution of technology, gameplay experiences, characteristics of game design, and changes in monetization strategies—all from the perspective of those involved in actual development.The session also highlights the “ethical dilemmas” that emerged in each era, while exploring future outlooks and the perspectives necessary for the next generation of game developers. In the latter half, the session will open into a broader discussion involving not only the speakers but also the audience, to collectively examine the future direction of the game industry.