For Mine Is the Kingdom
Playing God with Computer Games
Elizabeth Wirth
July 1, 2001
When people pray, a god is born. That god is you. So begins the theology of Black and White, a world-simulation game where playing god is not just the side effect, but the actual object-you play a literal deity of an imaginary world. Playing god, whether in a computer, board, or card game, is hardly a new phenomenon-even such mainstream games as Risk involve seeking virtual world-wide power and domination. But for those who have not kept their finger on the pulse of the computer game market, it might come as a surprise to discover how advanced these simulations have become-or how much they're already a part of the way America plays. Computer and video games are a $10.5 billion industry-already more than half the size of the U.S. film and video market, and growing fast. In light of this popularity, and intrigued by the increase of virtual power in the games, I decided to spend some time delving into the intricacies of Black and White and The Sims, two recent best-selling computer games that allow players to play god in their respective worlds. As my computer loaded Black and White, a background story unfolded. Little people bowed before me, asking me to be their god. They erected a temple and statue to honor me. And in a glorious climax, celestial stars and angelic voices converged in a chorus of worship around my name. Beginning as a minor deity, my task was, simply, to win the worship of my people, thus gaining renown and-hopefully-becoming the most powerful god in the land. I could gain worship by answering prayers, wreaking havoc, or casting miracles, either myself or through a "creature" whom I could train up to do my bidding. I could be a benevolent, loving god who answers people's prayers and gains their trust (i.e. White), ...
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