Video games have been a big part of our pop culture for decades. From iconic games such as Super Mario Bros. to The Legend of Zelda, video games have evolved and grown over time. Some may argue that video games heavily rely on using violent gameplay to drive the plot forward, causing a lot of negative discourse around video game culture. While I myself have not been playing video games all my life, I can firmly say that there is so much more to video games than their violent characteristics.
Video games have fascinated me in so many ways. First off, one of the most important parts is the gameplay. They can not be a successful game if the gameplay is mediocre or subpar. The gameplay can really drive the plot forward and can create real suspense and action within the story. Varying from game to game, the gameplay can be anything from just exploring the world to being a part of the action. An aspect of video games that I think not a lot of people recognize, is the work animators do for the pleasing images that appear on our screens. Every detail including facial expressions, how certain characters handle different types of combat, and even their body language is truly captivating.
Along with the gameplay, I really have an appreciation for the beautiful graphics, otherwise known as the background scenery. Depending on the plot of the story, the scenery could truly be anything, which continues to show how much talent video game creators have. I am constantly taken aback by the breathtaking and realistic landscapes video games share. Not only are the graphics visually appealing to the eye, but they are also able to immerse the player into the world, making the story that much more enjoyable.
Graphics and gameplay aside, video games, like many other pieces of entertainment, have an incredible story to share. To be fair, I can understand why some may have a difficult time understanding that video games have a lot more to them than violent action, due to the gameplay taking up most of the game. But obviously, video games have to have that aspect to them in order to be a video game, so that part is inevitable nonetheless.
My main point as to why video games are influential art pieces is because the stories they share bring people together and can leave an impact on others. A good example as to why I say this is one of my favorite video games, The Last Of Us. TLOU can share a story of love and make new connections with people after experiencing tragedy. I was personally drawn to this game due to the emotional connections that the characters experience throughout their journey in the game and how the idea of love can drive you to do things outside of your character for the people that you care about. Honestly, I don’t think I have ever been more moved by a piece of entertainment in my life, let alone a video game.
Art is one of the most important things that life has to offer, and I think it is rather ridiculous that video games are not considered art by most individuals. Any piece of media that shows the interworks of someone’s creative mind is art, no matter the form it takes place in. Needless to say, video games can bring dozens of people together which is one of the greatest things about entertainment and I will continue to advocate on behalf of video games.
