I think We all have heard so many people question if video games are good for society. Well how about we look at it in a different perspective, not if video games are bad, but if they are an art form. A PSU Editorial written explaining why video games are art. And we all can agree, there is that one game for us, that is truly a master piece.

What is art? It’s a fairly straightforward question, yet it encompasses a limitless amount of correct answers. Art is defined by Webster’s Dictionary as the conscious use of skill and creative imagination, especially in the production of aesthetic objects. What happens then, when the physical aspect is removed?

The other day, I asked my friend’s father, one of the most level-headed people I know, if he considered film to be a form of art. I was hit with a rapid response confirming that yes; film is indeed an art form. I proceeded to ask him the same question regarding videogames. I was greeted with a jovial laugh, followed by a peculiar stare once he realized that I was being serious. He then pointed out that a videogame can’t be compared to the likes of a beautiful sonata or a heart-wrenching movie. I asked, “Why not?” He adopted an irresolute manner and pronounced that they "just aren’t in the same league."

He was right. Videogames are not in the same league as music or film. Quite frankly, that wouldn’t be possible, as the two are in completely different categories to begin with. This fact doesn’t imply that one isn’t an art form. One came to be after the other was already established, thus there are disparities between the two. Another medium has now established itself within our society and grows tremendously in popularity with each passing day. We must once again modernize our views, as videogames are a new, interactive art form.
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Most recently commented on by on Apr 21, 2008
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  • 0
    Sayyed Apr 20, 08
    People need to start recognizing Games as art. Just look at shadow of the colossus, has Master Piece written all over it.
    • 0
      chautemoc Apr 21, 08
      Agreed, the game is beautiful.
  • 0
    doylie Apr 20, 08
    You should of got some clips from uncharted, now THAT is art.
  • 0
    black doom Apr 20, 08
    Video games are not only an art, but playing many of them is as well.
    • 0
      chautemoc Apr 21, 08
      More a skill than an art..
      • 0
        black doom Apr 21, 08
        In my opinion that depends on the game and how you play it.
  • 1
    The Primagen Apr 20, 08
    Why videogames are art.

    What is Okami?
  • 0
    The Primagen Apr 20, 08
    Why videogames are art.

    Okami?
  • 2
    BANDITO ATTACK Apr 20, 08
    visuals, audio, and writing are all art forms. video games are all three, only interactive.

    still, take into consideration that it takes a certain something to go from being an artist, to being a GOOD artist.
    • 0
      chautemoc Apr 21, 08
      Hehe, looking below, it appears we are on the same page (literally and metaphorically ).
  • 0
    Shadow of Death* Apr 21, 08
    @Primagen - Indeed, Okami is probably the best example of visual art in games. I haven't even played the game (I know, I'm bad, I am going to wait until I eventually get the Wii, to get the Wii version, the system it is meant for)....

    Yep, art isn't just visual, but auditory. Scent too. Basically, anything that is designed to stimulate any of the senses in a unique way could be classified as art.

    Games are still consided 'kids stuff' or worse 'violent psychopath stuff', by many it seems >_> They just write it off. Well, people used to write off books and movies. So the day videogames get mainstream acceptance by the vast majority, is coming, I'm sure....
    • 0
      Final Blade Apr 21, 08
      I disagree, i think God of War is a perfect example of Art moreso to Okami.
    • 0
      chautemoc Apr 21, 08
      Bertrand Russell once said: "Do not fear to be eccentric in opinion, for every opinion now accepted was once eccentric."

      Society's view will change on this eventually.
  • 0
    chautemoc Apr 21, 08
    quote
    He was right. Videogames are not in the same league as music or film. Quite frankly, that wouldn’t be possible, as the two are in completely different categories to begin with.
    Disagreed completely, especially since video games have cinematics (where did that term derive from again?) and music in them. Both are part of the whole experience. I would say that potentially, video games are the greatest art form, because they combine elements from each form and add interactivity to it.
  • 0
    J Bro Apr 21, 08
    Hmm, I guess I could say video games are art. After all, a lot of things that people call art are in video games. Movies/scenes, visuals, sound, all that is in video games. The only reason it is not totally accepted as art in this society is because most of society view it as a "kids thing". Even though some games are Rated M. Psh.
    • 0
      chautemoc Apr 21, 08
      People tend to see things they dont understand in extremes..so video games are either excessive and cause violence or it's silly kids stuff.
  • 0
    StarJet Apr 21, 08
    Video games = Best kind of art that ever existed.
    It's the best kinda mainly because it is interactive. The fun factor is greater.
    Why don't people understand this?
    • 0
      chautemoc Apr 21, 08
      Artists/critics take art too seriously, probably.
      Art can be fun!
  • 1
    The Primagen Apr 21, 08
    Another major artistic game is Rez, anybody who has played it knows why.
    • 0
      Sayyed Apr 21, 08
      Ahh Yes, I forgot about REZ. Thats up there with the most artistic games.

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