One of the quotes by Gen. David Sarnoff that McLuhan presents (in “The Medium is the Message”) is: “the products of modern science are not in themselves good or bad; it is the way they are used that determine their value.” I really thought about this quote when I found Darfur is Dying, the game.
Now you can play a narrative-based simulation that reenacts the struggle of the people of Darfur as they forage for water, hide from the Janjaweed militia, and try to survive. Yes, you read that correctly. I was initially really confused by this seemingly sickening game.
However, once I read the about us section, I discovered it is the winner of a “digital activist” contest sponsored by the Reebok Human Rights Foundation . . . hmm, interesting. Is this the “good” use to which we can put such technology?? I thought it was a really thought-provoking idea, and a great way to raise awareness among younger sectors of the U.S. population.
It's certainly well-intentioned, as you point out. I would argue that yes, it's also constructive. I don't see how this is any different from a movie meant to raise awareness (Hotel Rwanda, Blood Diamond, etc.) It's just a different medium. The only thing that makes it seem weird is that video gaming is a medium we associate solely with pleasure and fun. Political films don't strike us as so weird because we're used to films meant to make a statement. Maybe there will be a time when we're accustomed to video games that do the same.
I bet you're right about video games taking on more activist roles in the future . . . and I wonder what other technologies will do that too? We already see it--like you said--in film, but also charity concerts, muscial compilations, and art shows . . . what's next??