What’s on Your Bookshelf: Pietro Righi Riva, Co-founder of Santa Ragione and Director of Saturnalia


**The Comeback of “Booked for the Week”: A Tribute to Literary Gaming**

Greetings to you, esteemed reader of words! Today heralds both the poignant and triumphant comeback of “Booked for the Week,” our consistently inconsistent Sunday column where game enthusiasts delve into literature. It’s poignant because the original architect of this column, the eminent wordsmith Nic Reuben, is no longer in a full-time capacity at Rock Paper Shotgun (RPS). On the flip side, it’s triumphant as this is one of the most exceptional columns I’ve had the pleasure of reading, and I’m thrilled Nic has granted permission for its continuation. By the way, he now has a Patreon.

“Booked for the Week” has consistently provided a distinctive platform at the intersection of literature and gaming, granting readers revelations about how narratives from literature shape game development and vice versa. This column has been a sanctuary for those who cherish storytelling in its myriad forms, whether it unfolds through the leaves of a novel or the engrossing world of a video game.

The original visionary behind the column, Nic Reuben, infused a unique voice and viewpoint that resonated deeply with many. His departure from a full-time position at RPS is undoubtedly a loss, yet his influence persists within the column’s sustained investigation of literary motifs in gaming. Nic’s fervor for storytelling and his skill in intertwining the realms of literature and gaming have made a lasting impression on the column.

The revival of “Booked for the Week” stands as proof of the ongoing allure of this intersecting analysis. It serves as a stage for game creators, authors, and aficionados to express their insights on how literature has influenced their creative endeavors and how games, in return, fuel literary aspirations. This exchange enriches both art forms, nurturing a greater appreciation for the tales that enthrall us.

As the column progresses, it ensures the introduction of new perspectives and voices into the dialogue. Readers can anticipate uncovering how modern games are inspired by classic literature, how budding authors draw inspiration from interactive narratives, and how the lines between these two artistic expressions continue to fade.

In summary, the reestablishment of “Booked for the Week” is a moment for celebration. It honors Nic Reuben’s legacy while welcoming the future of literary gaming dialogue. For those who value the enchantment of storytelling, be it in books or games, this column remains a crucial read. Don’t forget to explore Nic Reuben’s Patreon for more of his astute insights, and stay tuned for more enthralling discussions in “Booked for the Week.”