Pocket Essentials is a dynamic series of books that are concise, lively, and easy to read. Packed with facts as well as expert opinions, each book has all the key information you need to know about such popular topics as film, television, cult fiction, history, and more. Sonic, Mario, PlayStation--these terms are now part of the cultural lexicon. It isn't uncommon to find a video game console lurking under televisions, but at the same time, this newly emerged media has come under attack by those looking to find a cause for society's ills. Part rock 'n' roll, part multibillion dollar industry, videogaming is the fastest growing media in modern culture. This Pocket Essential contains a complete history of videogames, cultural essays on branding, popular culture, violence, and female gamers, and reviews of over 120 of the most important videogames of the past 30 years.