Throughout history, art has been a tool for humankind to achieve many wonders. Art enables us to reveal our innermost emotions, inspire deep connection with others, and evoke pointed introspection within the self. Analyzing and interpreting art has always been a subjective practice based on asking questions. When we look at the magnificent Mona Lisa by Leonardo da Vinci, we wonder what made him choose to paint her in the way that he did. Alternatively, we may wonder who this woman is and why she is important. What is her story? How is she related to the artist? Similar questions arise not just with painted art, but also with photography, architecture, music, and literature. When an audience considers what inspired George Orwell’s commentary on totalitarian control in 1984 or the allegories on democracy and civilization within William Golding’s Lord of the Flies, they can begin to uncover the root of what makes art so meaningful and crucial to our everyday life. Our world is filled to the brim with art that can be interpreted in many different ways. It could be argued that nature itself, with its boundless oceans and beautiful landscapes, should be considered art, and has definitely inspired many artists.
Art has developed substantially in recent decades. With the introduction of technology, humanity has broadened the horizons on what is deemed art. Due to its subjectivity, art in many ways is in the eye of the beholder. Here, I will unpack how a lesser-recognized art form can and should hold its place in history as a form of literature like any other. With its unique blend of user interactivity, audio and visual design, and world-building, video games create stories told from the players’ points of view and perspectives — an experience that other forms of literature cannot offer.
Video Games as Literature 