What is considered art has been a long-debated question for centuries. When the first movies were created, many considered them a novel piece of entertainment but lacking in the emotional complexity that true art provided. However, over time, directors began to explore the potential of film and began writing incredible narratives that left audiences speechless. After the potential of the medium was proven, movies gained the right to be called art, and I believe video games have already earned that same right.
Video games can be considered a form of art, a type of art that is incredibly adaptive in what it can portray and can leave the consumer with a different interpretation each time they play them. In one ending, a video game can provoke a deep sadness in the player and have them reflect on the nature of mortality. In that same game, a second ending can cause the player to be hopeful and understand that tomorrow is an opportunity that should never be squandered.
Video games as a medium of art is incredibly adaptive and personal, leaving players the opportunity to form their own understanding of the game, much like how art critics can interpret paintings in several different ways. Not all video games are created with the intention to portray a complex narrative or be considered a work of art. However, those few that set out to become remarkable works of art deserve to earn the recognition they rarely receive.
“Clair Obscure: Expedition 33” is one of the greatest video games of all time, earning nine total awards at the Game Awards, including the Game of the Year award. I have played this game, and from only one playthrough, the game has caused more emotions and introspection than any piece of art I have ever seen before. For a game about a broken family of painters, it stands out as a work of art in narrative, music, and visual design.
Some may consider video games as nothing more than games made to entertain. However, I believe that video games are one of the best forms of media for artistic expression available, and I sincerely hope that more people will recognize the sheer talent that goes into these games by their developers. To me, developers are just artists using a moving digital canvas, creating art with code instead of paint.
