The article Bow N****** by Shanahan was an interesting read. I found it interesting how the author’s humble reaction to the other player’s racial slur permeated the article. I liked when he said, “It’s not just a trivial game to be played in an idle moment, this is a genuine battle of good versus evil.” This interaction between the two parties sparked many questions such as; Can separation be made between race and the avatar’s characteristics in game play? Are video games successful at creating this separation? The author didn’t find the words of the other player pleasing yet, he didn’t take it personally. He was able to discern the distinction between reality and the game world. (Magic Circle) Despite Shanahan’s humbleness, when questioned about his ethnicity and if he was a N****** he asked did it matter. I found the other player’s racist remarks and neediness to know the author’s demographics disturbing. “It matters” Why? This article is a prime example as to the weakness of the “magic circle”. Although, the game allows gamers to freely say what they want, I find that when players engage in these racial rants it challenges the sanctuary nature of the “Magic Circle”.
Initially the magic circle is a cybernetic safe space designated for gamers to free themselves of their real-world responsibilities and engage in play and discovery. When you bring the outside/ natural world issues/ideologies inside the magic circle it seems to shake the entire structure and test its existence.
Game Studies 