Usually there are two thoughts that come to mind when video games are mentioned in popular discussion. Either they are violent, cruel and threaten the youth of our kids, or they are just a childish waste of time. A negative stance against video games has become popular among concerned parents over the recent years. Now there are violent, gory and promiscuous games that are questionable for the consumption of children and teenagers, such games include war games like, "Call of Duty," and games with sexual and pro-drug themes such as, "Grand Theft Auto." But, there are many other video games out there that are not too violent or dark enough to suggest strong adult themes. That is why there are ratings on games and strong suggestions for what age group should play what games. What many people fail to realize these days is that on a large scale, video games have made bright childhoods for children everywhere. Video games have brought people together and given them common ground to bond with each other. They make people happy. Why is this? Well, video games are special. Every single one is unique. Video games have elements of creativity. Creativity and adventure that give people a real thrill. Therefore, video games can be considered works of art. There are several key factors that make video games forms of art.
For one, video games are stories. For as long as humans have been around, they have liked stories in one form or another. First it was the oral tradition around campfires, or in carvings on walls. Then it was paintings, books, and plays. Then enter the cinema and television shows in the 20th century. Now, video games have become a part of the list of mediums for story telling. All games have some sort of plot with heroes, villains, and goals for the player. In recent years, the plots have become more complex, resembling stories just as thrilling as any novel. Classic video games, such as "The Legend of Zelda" or "Sonic the Hedgehog" have illustrated complex story lines that could fill up several books. Video games have evolved to become virtual books that players can control.
Video games are also physical works of art. Good or creative graphics and designs are essential to video games. So, it takes a lot of skill and hard work from graphic designers and concept artists in order to craft a good game. Their developments bring fantasy worlds to life, and allow players to escape the world for a short time in order to go on an adventure. This is much like how movies bring adventures to life on the big screen, or how books have always given readers the choice to get lost in the pages. The only major difference with video games is that the player lives the life of the character through the controller.
No gaming experience would be complete without a music soundtrack. As video games have evolved their graphics and story lines, they have also developed an array of wonderful music to the gaming experience. Games like "Kingdom Hearts" have provided players with iconic soundtracks, and the iconic musical styles of the "Legend of Zelda" series are performed by orchestras in concert. Since the dawn of human history, music has always been one of the most highest forms of art. Gaming has allowed that art to flourish, and captivate the hearts and minds of millions of people.
Video games are a marvel because they support several forms of art. They tell stories, present colorful and beautiful sceneries, and serenade gamers with music. These are things we humans have always craved. The video game, just like any book, allows people to step into a world outside the confines of the one the live in. It gives them a chance to escape to a place where they can live out all the adventures that the human mind and body have craved for centuries. Yes, there are video games that may not be found suitable for certain age groups, but that is ok. Just like books, movies, and TV, video games have an array of genres to choose from. There are fantasy games, brain games, games designed for teamwork, and even games to help you get active. Video games are here to stay, and it is time people embrace them for what they are -- a medium for storytelling unlike any kind the world has ever seen. But, like anything, it's important to remember that moderation is key, and that just like movies (and books) there are just some that must be taken with caution.
