A behind-the-scenes look at how the military uses cutting-edge video game technology to train soldiers for new forms of armed conflict, treat veterans, and entice new recruits. Researcher Corey Mead shows us training sessions where soldiers undertake multiplayer "missions" that test combat skills, develop unit cohesion, and teach cultural awareness. He immerses himself in 3-D battle simulations so convincing that they leave his heart racing. And he shows how the military fuels the adoption of games as learning tools--and recruitment come-ons. Mead also details how the military uses games to prepare soldiers for their return to the home front, and to treat PTSD. Military-funded researchers were closely involved with the invention of the Internet; now, as Mead proves, we are at the brink of a similar explosion in game technology. War Play reveals that many of tomorrow's teaching tools, therapies, and entertainments can be found in today's military.--From publisher description.

The rise of the military-entertainment complex -- Building the classroom arsenal : the military's influence on American education -- "Everybody must think" : the military's post-9/11 turn to video games -- America's Army : the game -- All but war is simulation -- WILL interactive and the military's serious games -- The aftermath : medical virtual reality and the treatment of trauma -- Conclusion : America's Army invades our classrooms.