Video Games as Art Part 2

After having dissected parts of Roger Ebert’s article about why video games are not art, I now feel the need to give a few examples of the artistic nature of video games.

One of the best illustrations comes from an art exhibit hosted at E3 every year. Into the Pixels showcases art from and inspired by video games. The display  demonstrates how video games are not just about button mashing, but are now seen as a viable art form.

The story is written. Every graphic is carefully thought out. Soundtracks are composed, mixed and edited. The game evokes certain feelings and emotions from each player. That is art.

And if the above argument is not enough. Maybe the National Endowment for the Arts declaring that they would now fund videos games might convince you that games can be art.

Not every art form is for every person. I may not find Uncharted to be the most artistic game, but I respect a person’s right to declare it as art.