The emergence of video games: a phenomenon from Thai identity to the digital society within popular culture
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Abstract
Thai society today is characterized by the widespread consumption of digital cultural media, a key element of popular culture. Among these, video games have become a dominant medium, integrating various disciplines, particularly art and design. This study examines the evolution of the Thai video game industry from the pre-internet era to the social media age through a literature review of relevant documents and media to study popular culture through video games in Thailand.
Early Thai video games were rooted in nationalist ideology, emphasizing traditional Thainess. However, in the digital age, they have evolved toward a more globalized identity, integrating popular culture that influences real-life experiences, including consumption, trans-media adaptation, and applications in human relationships,
quality of life, and the COVID-19 era. Despite this shift, their impact as a globalized cultural force remains unclear. While still based on Thainess, Thai video games now blend local and international influences, creating a hybrid identity shaped by global popular culture.
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