Abstract

This article introduces and explores the concept of Virtual Hauntology. I have planned to write this article for long time. Originally, I conceptualised this work as purely an academic piece—written for an academic journal. However, having previously published in Phlexible Philosophy, I felt—upon careful reflection—that the medium of an online platform—and the stylistic freedoms that this allows—represented the most fitting space from which to share the ideas and ‘story’ of this article. The structure of this article can be best located as a socio-philosophical investigation of two linked questions: Why do so many people feel nostalgia for the virtual worlds of video games? And—connected to this: How does this nostalgia become such a powerful driving force encouraging individuals to reengage with games and virtual spaces over time? To explore these questions, I draw upon my own relationship and experiences with Capcom’s 1996 PlayStation game Resident Evil.