NEW in Toronto: The Politics, Power & Culture of Video Games

Brains and Barstools brings captivating professors to Toronto bars for vivid lectures that spark curiosity and connection over drinks. On October 21st, we present : "The Politics, Power & Culture of Video Games" by Prof. Nick Taylor. When we think about making video games more inclusive, we usually focus on the games themselves. But what about the places where we play them? From living rooms and bedrooms to dorms and shared apartments, the physical spaces we dedicate to gaming quietly shape who gets to participate—and who doesn't. Something as simple as deciding where to put the PlayStation can reflect deeper questions about family life, leisure, identity, and belonging. In this thought-provoking lecture, Prof. Nick Taylor explores the overlooked relationship between video games and domestic space. Why do some people have the freedom to game whenever they want, while others struggle to find the time, privacy, or space? How do our homes influence who gets to play, watch, create, and participate in gaming culture? Looking beyond what's happening on the screen, this lecture reveals how everyday decisions about space and leisure have profound consequences for one of the world's largest forms of entertainment. Whether you're an avid gamer or have never picked up a controller, you'll leave with a new perspective on how our environments shape our hobbies, relationships, and opportunities. 💡 About the incredible Prof. Nick Taylor Prof. Nick Taylor is an Associate Professor in York University's Department of Communication and Media Studies and helped launch York's Social Media and Public Relations program at its Markham campus. His research explores the politics of leisure, media, and digital culture. He is the author of The Grounds of Gaming (2024), which examines the spaces where video games are played and the social forces that shape gaming culture. His current research investigates how artists and activists use LEGO to imagine more equitable futures. 📅 Date: October 21, 2026 🕡 Time: 6:30 – 8:30 PM 📍 Location: Black Lab Brewing, Toronto 🎤 Speaker: Prof. Nick Taylor Join us for a fascinating conversation about the surprising ways our homes shape who gets to play — and why that matters far beyond video games. 🎟 Seats are limited!