Interactive Television and Video Game High School
With the advent of new technologies the relationship between the internet and television was explored by the major television networks and by computer manufacturers. Initially devices that were created for television viewing and had internet access failed, mainly because, paradoxically, the technology was not advanced enough. Products from companies like Microsoft were “confined to the slow business of dial-up Internet access” and “hurt by a history of network outages” (Boddy). The ideas of interactive television could not fully be realized until the technology caught up. Nowadays convergence between internet and television is so commonplace it just seems like an integral part of television viewing. This convergence also led to a more personalized and interactive television.
Video Game High School (VGHS) is a great example of a product of televisual technologies. VGHS is a live-action web series that takes place in the near future where video gaming is a professional competitive sport and popular all around the world. At the elite high school students learn a curriculum entirely of video games so they can improve their skills. The creators and writers of the show turned to Kickstarter for their funding, this action automatically creates an audience that is invested in the success of the show. The backers from Kickstarter receive special rewards depending on the amount of money they contribute. Perks range from a signed poster to getting executive producer credit and being able to observe any aspect of production or post-production. Another interesting reward is “Film Camp” where the creators will teach you everything they know about online video and “help you with your channel/online video dreams” (Indiegogo.com). This interactivity is beneficial to both the creators and viewers. The web series platform provides more freedom for the creative personnel because they do not have to rely on and get input from studio executives at a network in order to make their project.
Video Game High School (VGHS) is a great example of a product of televisual technologies. VGHS is a live-action web series that takes place in the near future where video gaming is a professional competitive sport and popular all around the world. At the elite high school students learn a curriculum entirely of video games so they can improve their skills. The creators and writers of the show turned to Kickstarter for their funding, this action automatically creates an audience that is invested in the success of the show. The backers from Kickstarter receive special rewards depending on the amount of money they contribute. Perks range from a signed poster to getting executive producer credit and being able to observe any aspect of production or post-production. Another interesting reward is “Film Camp” where the creators will teach you everything they know about online video and “help you with your channel/online video dreams” (Indiegogo.com). This interactivity is beneficial to both the creators and viewers. The web series platform provides more freedom for the creative personnel because they do not have to rely on and get input from studio executives at a network in order to make their project.
Since the web series was created for an online format there are many ways a viewer can watch Video Game High School. You can access it for free on the production company’s YouTube channel or you can watch it directly on rocketjump.com, the production company’s website. You can also pay for content via iTunes, Vimeo, and Amazon. On Netflix there are two seasons available to stream, a behind the scenes documentary of the making of the show, and VGHS: The Movie which combines and edits the first two seasons into a feature length film.
The relationship between television and the internet is continually being negotiated. Since the 1980’s we have seen many developments in televisual technology that have allowed for the convergence of television and internet. As technology advances we will continue to witness the evolving interconnection between television and internet.
Citations:
Boddy, William. “Interactive Television and Advertising Form in Contemporary U.S. Television.” Spigel and Olson 113-162.
https://www.indiegogo.com/projects/video-game-high-school-vghs-season-3#activity
The relationship between television and the internet is continually being negotiated. Since the 1980’s we have seen many developments in televisual technology that have allowed for the convergence of television and internet. As technology advances we will continue to witness the evolving interconnection between television and internet.
Citations:
Boddy, William. “Interactive Television and Advertising Form in Contemporary U.S. Television.” Spigel and Olson 113-162.
https://www.indiegogo.com/projects/video-game-high-school-vghs-season-3#activity
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