Jeff Tapper is an American journalist, educator, game designer, and co-founder of the New York Videogame Critics Circle (NYVCC). He is recognized for his contributions to video game journalism, his work in serious game design, and his role in fostering the video game community and talent in New York City.
Early Life and Education
Information regarding Tapper's early life and specific educational background is not widely detailed in public profiles. He has been involved in media and technology for many years, leading to his diverse career.
Career
Tapper's career spans several facets of media and education:
- Journalism and Writing: Tapper has written extensively about technology, video games, and culture for a variety of publications. His work often delves into the intersection of gaming, societal impact, and user experience. He has contributed to outlets such as MTV, The Escapist, and others.
- Game Design: He has worked as a game designer, particularly focusing on "serious games" or games with educational and social commentary aims. A notable project he co-designed is The People's Game, a game created in collaboration with academics and journalists, which explored the themes and events of the Occupy Wall Street movement.
- Education: Tapper is a prominent educator in the field of game design, writing, and journalism. He has held teaching positions at several institutions, including:
- The City University of New York (CUNY)
- New York Film Academy
- St. John's University
- New York University (NYU) His courses often cover topics like game history, game design principles, narrative in games, and critical analysis of video games.
- Podcasting and Consulting: Tapper has also been involved in podcasting, providing commentary and analysis on the video game industry. He serves as a consultant for various organizations, leveraging his expertise in game design and media.
The New York Videogame Critics Circle
One of Tapper's most significant contributions is his role as a co-founder of the New York Videogame Critics Circle (NYVCC). Established in 2011, the NYVCC is a not-for-profit organization composed of professional video game critics and journalists from the New York metropolitan area. Its mission includes:
- Promoting Excellence in Videogame Journalism: Providing a platform for critical discourse and celebrating quality writing about games.
- Community Outreach: Engaging in mentoring programs, scholarships, and community service, particularly working with underserved youth in New York City.
- The New York Game Awards: The NYVCC hosts an annual awards ceremony, the New York Game Awards, which honors the best games and contributions to the industry from a New York-centric perspective. Tapper has been instrumental in the organization and presentation of these awards.
Through the NYVCC, Tapper has championed local talent and worked to connect the gaming industry with educational initiatives and community development.
External Links
- New York Videogame Critics Circle Official Website
- Jeff Tapper's profile at New York Film Academy