The Logic of Distinction of Independent Games
I found this article on Ian’s blog about the difficulties in conceptualizing independent games as an alternative practice. Jahn-Sudmann does so by comparing the possibility to independent film, which now has been functional, profitable, and distinct for years. Are mainstream games still seen too much as a viable alternative to media culture in general to warrant a separate indie movement? He uses both Escape from Woomera and flOw as examples that provide alternative forms or topics.
I do see how since bad behavior is often associated with mainstream games, movements like games for change and serious games aim to find ostensibly altruistic approaches rather than subversive expression as a defining quality of the alternative. Both have a place I hope.
Oh, and Eludamos seems like a journal worth checking out.