SPECIMEN Q8

Explain at least two uses and gratifications of video games using Blumer and Katz's theory. Refer to the lego movie video game to support your answer. 

Video games are very helpful in means of communication, values, relationships, surveillance and escapism. They provide a route for you to get more out of a movie you may have enjoyed or a route for you to forget about the activities that may have occurred in your day because you mind is wrapped within a game. The Lego Movie is a good example of how you can get more out of a movie. The Lego Movie video game is used for extra amplification of the movie, giving the opportunity for people to enjoy more benefits of the movie. It would also have been created for additional propaganda and promotion of the movie and therefore it has another purpose, other than just the idea of Blumer and Katz's theory. 

Video games also help you identify with certain characters. After watching the Lego Movie, you may identify with Emmet or even Lord Business and therefore having the game out there makes you want to play it as it would give you another chance to see a character you might have bonded with; whether through personal values or relationships. 

There is also a social and cultural significance of media products in the world. Nowadays media is a common focus in average conversations. Being prevented from media products, such as television and video games, could mean being isolated from conversations with friends. Lots of video games have important messages laced within them as well. Some video games show what is politically happening, whilst others show actual dangers of the war. The lego movie video game is tamer but I believe it has an important message about political issues within the government and how dangerously far they will go.