Reality Is Broken

by Jane McGonigal
Reality Is Broken cover
Good Books rating 3.5
Technology and Innovation
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  • ID: 2504
  • Added: 2025-10-15
  • Updated: 2025-10-16
  • ISBN: 9781409028987
  • Publisher: Random House
  • Published: 2011-02-10
  • Formats: 1
  • Reviews: 3

In 'Reality is Broken,' Jane McGonigal argues that games are far more than just entertainment. With over 31 million gamers in the UK and young people spending 10,000 hours gaming by age 21, McGonigal presents a compelling case for the power of games to improve individual lives and drive global change. She challenges conventional thinking and offers insights into how gaming can address real-world problems and enhance our daily experiences. McGonigal, a renowned game designer, draws on her expertise to showcase the potential of games to foster creativity, problem-solving, and social connection. This book is a call to action for anyone interested in the future of technology and human behavior, demonstrating how games can be a force for good in an increasingly complex world.

Reviews
Games Commons GC CUNY · 2011-07-26
mixed 3.00

The book has received mixed reactions, with some criticizing its overly optimistic view of gaming.

The reviewer notes that there has been some backlash against the book, with critics arguing that it presents an overly optimistic view of gaming. They acknowledge that the book has sparked important discussions and debates about the role of games in society. While some readers might find the arguments compelling, others might see them as naive or unrealistic. The book is seen as a catalyst for further exploration of the topic.

Quick quotes

    I've been noticing some backlash against Jane McGonigal's book Reality is Broken.

    Many of the jeremiads launched against it suggest that it presents an overly optimistic view of gaming.

    The book has sparked important discussions and debates about the role of games in society.

The Guardian · 2011-05-01
optimistic 4.00

The book presents a compelling argument for embracing virtual worlds to enhance real-life experiences. The author's perspective is optimistic and forward-thinking.

The reviewer found the book to be a persuasive read, highlighting the potential of games to improve real-life experiences. They appreciate the author's optimistic outlook and the practical solutions proposed. However, they also note that the book might be seen as overly idealistic by some readers. The discussion on how games can solve real-world problems is particularly engaging and thought-provoking.

Quick quotes

    An American games guru makes a persuasive case for investing in the virtual world if we want to improve the real one.

    McGonigal's arguments are compelling and her vision for the future of gaming is both inspiring and practical.

    The book offers a fresh perspective on how games can be used to tackle real-world issues.

Psychology of Games · 2011-03-04
enthusiastic 3.50

The author's enthusiasm for gaming is infectious, but the book could have benefited from addressing the darker aspects of gaming.

The reviewer appreciates the author's unabashed optimism and the positive tone of the book. They found the ideas presented to be engaging and thought-provoking. However, they also felt that the book could have been more balanced by discussing the potential negative impacts of gaming, such as addiction. Overall, the book is seen as a valuable contribution to the discussion on the benefits of gaming.

Quick quotes

    McGonigal is unabashedly optimistic and positive throughout the book.

    The book hardly ever mentions the potential dark sides of gaming – addiction, for example.

    The ideas presented are engaging and thought-provoking.

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