On the Creation of Communications Space among Japanese Game Players :A Case Study of Youth Behavior and Interaction at AmusementArcades in Japan

Abstract

This paper attempts to analyze communication space created by Japanese youth who flocks to video game arcades. I myself joined them for direct observation and checked their comments written in the notebooks at the arcades. This approach led to reveal the unique existence of communication space created through the fusion of two communication patterns: face-to-face and machinemediated. The negative image of young people, for example juvenile delinquency and self-isolation, is contrary to the reality. This kind of prejudice among the older generations is not reflecting their behaviors and interaction patterns.