Seven Games: A Human History

Seven Games, by Oliver Roeder, explores the origins, rules, and historical significance of ancient and modern games like checkers, backgammon, chess, Go, poker, Scrabble, and bridge. It features thrilling competitors, discusses the history and lore of each game, and explores why games speak deeply to the human soul. The book also discusses how humans have invented AI programs better than any human player, what that means for the games, and for us.

Format: Hardback
Length: 320 pages
Publication date: 29 March 2022
Publisher: WW Norton & Co

Seven Games, ancient and modern, captivate millions worldwide. In this captivating book, Oliver Roeder explores the origins, historical significance, and intricate rules of these seven games. From checkers to Go, poker to bridge, he delves into the stories of thrilling competitors, the evolution of the games, and their profound connection to the human soul.

Roeder introduces us to evangelical minister Marion Tinsley, who lost only three games of checkers over forty years, and Shusai, the last Go champion of imperial Japan, who defended tradition against "modern rationalism." He also tells the story of an IBM engineer who created a backgammon program so capable of self-learning that NASA used it on the space shuttle.

Beyond the cultural and personal anecdotes, Roeder delves into the philosophical and scientific aspects of games. He introduces Bernard Suits, an early philosopher of games, and visits an Oxford cosmologist who has perfected a computer that can effectively play bridge, a game as complicated as human language itself.

Throughout the book, Roeder tells the compelling story of how humans have invented AI programs that surpass any human player in these games. He raises thought-provoking questions about the future of gaming and its impact on our lives. Seven Games is a fascinating blend of humor, fascination, and profound insights into the human condition. It explores obsession, psychology, history, and the essential role that play plays in making us who we are.

Weight: 554g
Dimension: 159 x 238 x 30 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781324003779