Explore and Learn with Virtual Shakespeare

Sometimes researchers learn more from their mistakes than their successes. Some time back, Edward Castronova over at Indiana announced work on Arden was ending. Castronova’s team used the Neverwinter Nights engine and funding from the MacArthur Foundation to create a giant VW based on Shakespearean England. Unfortunately, Castronova says the game ultimately is boring. There are no monsters to slay. Students are exposed to raw Shakespearean prose and poesy rather than obtuse action and adventure. So, Castronova is releasing the product to the public, and going back to the drawing board to create Arden II … a product he promises will have action, adventure, and many monsters to slay.

For English majors, and other fans of The Bard’s work, visit Arden and play a while.