Video games: more than just headshots

 

For as far back as I can remember I have played video games. Heck, the first time I cussed was when I was fighting my brother in Street Fighter. Video games where also the way I lost 100 pounds. Any way, I have always seen video games as not just an experience, but a form of art. In just speaking of console gaming it has definitely come a long way from the days of Pong and Pacman. Yes, I do know that PC gaming has the better graphics, but nonetheless it's amazing how far we've come. With the new release of the Master Chief Collection you can really see the progress of graphics in gaming with just the flip of a switch.

Two games in particular that stick out to me as unconventional art are Little Big Planet and Project Spark. In both you can create games inside of games. Speaking of Pong and Pacman, you can literally create your own versions inside of those two titles. I think user generated art inside of a game is a great way to express. Do I need to mention the unicorn in the room that is Minecraft? My brother can't understand the concept of these games, all he likes to do is play COD or GTA, but, again, they're something special. With the mention of GTA would I also call that art, as well as every other game, yes, I would. To me, gaming is more than just head shots. It's a tool of expression just like painting.

One of my favorite gaming series is Dynasty Warriors. Yes, it is just a mindless hack and slash, but from the moment I first played it I latched onto its story. It is based off the Romance of the Three Kingdoms. Would I ever read that? Uh, no. That is why I appreciate that gaming has created a new form of art to where you can experience the story for yourself and really feel for the characters if they die. In conclusion, just because a game makes millions it doesn't mean it's not art and just because a game doesn't hit the mainstream doesn't mean it's not successful. Not every painting is viewed in the same way, but it doesn't mean it's not art. Although I would contest that there are some "art" pieces out there that shouldn't be consider so, but that's a convo for another time.