Few questions, and don't turn this thread into a console/best video game ever war. It's not intended to be that. How do you see video games? Do you play simply for entertainment? Do you think video games can be considered art? And I'm not talking just high-def CG. When you pick up a game, how often do you find yourself completely wrapped up in it? Have you ever played a game that has been considered to have terrible graphics (for the time it's from) but wanted to see the story, or vice versa (bad story/gameplay, good graphics)? Why do you think gaming has become such a huge part of our everyday lives? What is your opinion on the "video games make our kids violent" argument? Given that there is somewhat of a recession going on around the world, do you think the gaming industry will suffer from it? Overall, how do you think video games have progressed? Do you think that fewer very good games are being made in order to produce games that barely sell but are from big toy companies? Like Barbie games for example. For you, what makes a video game good? Has there ever been a game you've played that actually changed how you look at life, or at least made you think about things? And for fun, what is the stupidest - yet somehow entertaining - game you've played or watched someone play?
First The following content contains jokes of a ******ed nature and can easily be attributed to the fact I'm tired as ****, ignore if used for future studies or in general *shot* How do you see video games? Do you play simply for entertainment? - Entertainment (*cough*andpossiblecareer*cough*). It's basically a narrative like a book, movie, or some other media but you can interact with it so it's like a combo meal of entertainment (FOR ONLY $499982!!). Do you think video games can be considered art? And I'm not talking just high-def CG. - Well yeah, they are a combination of a bunch of media as I previously stated. The only side I don't consider to be art would be the programming side, which is mostly where the argument of why some think it isn't art comes from. That and cause the late 40 year old executives are laying bricks in their pants that better qualified people are coming to replace them and thus slag off their own industry to attempt to steer people away from taking their jobs. When you pick up a game, how often do you find yourself completely wrapped up in it? - Well I don't thinking picking up a game is possible to cause such involvement, but perhaps playing it- *shot*. On a more answering note, I tend to find myself either attracted to the situations of the game, such as how me and my friend who are replaying RE5 are increasingly consumed by the action and the need to survive while we couldn't give a rats ass about the plot. But other games tend to have a deeper plot which can wrap me up more than the feeling the gameplay gives. Have you ever played a game that has been considered to have terrible graphics (for the time it's from) but wanted to see the story, or vice versa (bad story/gameplay, good graphics)? - Yep. I tend to play a lot of old games from old generations still, as I hear a lot of others still do, but even on the current generation I find games with graphics that some consider outdated (such as Disgaea) to be more fun than these "oh so realistic FPS" knock offs of each other that tend to focus more on graphics than their gameplay (considering how they rarely ever differ imo). Why do you think gaming has become such a huge part of our everyday lives? - Because it's fun, it's another way of telling a story as opposed to TV or books or an old man infront of a fire place and in the recent years it has become interactive and adjustable to individual tastes of people from casual to experienced. What is your opinion on the "video games make our kids violent" argument? - Utter bull. As my dad once said to me, "people aren't influenced by what they see on TV or in books, but it adds to something that they have already considered". A good story lets the reader/viewer/etc feel like they are in control and view the world from the characters points of view, but sometimes it can also make the person playing/etc feel as if they are the character but I believe that there must be something present before hand for someone to become violent from playing a game, or even watching TV or reading a book and being influenced by the events of the game. It's a bad combination of a ticking time bomb of insanity people have and a slight nudge from an accidental source. It's happened with movies and books, so of course it happens with games but it isn't the games fault. IMO. Given that there is somewhat of a recession going on around the world, do you think the gaming industry will suffer from it? - I have no idea, I've asked about this a few times to a bunch of my teachers, some of which are games designers themselves, but none have really mentioned any problems. I imagine it'll have an effect on budget and a good number of jobs from lessening the work staff for a team. Overall, how do you think video games have progressed? Do you think that fewer very good games are being made in order to produce games that barely sell but are from big toy companies? Like Barbie games for example. - Sometimes games are intended to be an add on for a movie or another industry, fair enough, but not all of them are good and most have become notorious for being terrible rushed games. Every now and again a few good ones will appear, like the first Harry Potter game. But the games companies have progressed greatly and there are quite a lot of them so it's not safe to say that all games are getting better but some are improving in areas, but I still think they tend to focus too much on graphics and they forget the balance of gameplay and plot being added into the mix sometimes. For you, what makes a video game good? - Good plot, likeable characters, attention grabbing and impressive gameplay, continuity and how well the music, visuals, etc all compliment each other in a balance. Has there ever been a game you've played that actually changed how you look at life, or at least made you think about things? - Sort of, it's not changed me completely into another direction but a number of games have made me think a few things over. I'll have to get back to you on this one though, it's a pretty hard question to answer off the bat. And for fun, what is the stupidest - yet somehow entertaining - game you've played or watched someone play? - Hogs of War. Probably one of my most favourite games of all time and yet so stupid yet incredibly fun. Also, kinda racist, but in a harmless way where it's not so offensive since it insults everyone. I'll probably add to this later.
Video games are a form of entertainment and nothing else. It's something for you to do when you're bored by yourself or something fun to do with friends. No, video games aren't art. Art is paintings, sculptures, etc. At least that's how I see it. It depends on the game. If it's something I've been hyping about for a while(Like Pokemon Black) I definitely will but most of the time I'll just play it in my leisure time. I will when I pick up Golden Sun: Dark Dawn. Its graphics suck but I cannot wait to see what the story is about Because they're fun! Not to mention easily accessible if you own a console. It's fuсking stupid. Not really. Case and point: Black Ops. Video games have definitely progressed in terms of graphics, but now they've become kind of generic. I mean, almost EVERY game you see people getting crazy about is an FPS nowadays. Very rarely does a good RPG come out. A video game is good if it has compelling characters, a good story, fun gameplay, decent graphics for its time, and something original to offer players. No. Well, I guess The World Ends With You did make me think about a few things regarding the afterlife but that's it. Battletoads :lolface:
Entertainment is the main purpose, but sometimes I find myself playing them for the purpose of...inspiration rather than entertainment. I don't know, it's hard to explain. Certainly, and I definitely believe some to be art. Final Fantasy X had a spiritual, breath-taking side to it that still stands tall even though the graphics are outdated by now. Okami is also an artful game, for a number of reaons. Not as often as I used to be. Not even Final Fantasy XIII held my attention for too long, which surprised me. The last game that compelled me was Star Ocean 4, until a disc reading error occured after I had forgotten to save. XD Only the former has occured to me. Final Fantasy VII would be a great example. It wasn't the first Final Fantasy I came in contact with, but I wanted to play it and finish it just for the story, regardless of the bad graphics. Other examples would be Jade Cocoon and Parasite Eve, which I want to replay for their story and gameplay. I don't know. I just think it's the next step in storytelling. Movies fulfilled the need for visualisation. Gaming fulfilled the need of interaction. Online gaming fulfilled the need of participation. I don't know when the next step will come (if any), but there's a good chance that that too will become a huge part of everyday life. That being said, it's not a huge part in everyone's life. Many people aren't interested at all, and the gaming phenomenon passes them by. Video games make our kids violent only in combination with bad parenting. True, some video games like Manhunt or GTA don't offer a politically correct view of right and wrong, but it's the parents' responsibility to convince their kids that there is a huge difference between the real world and the game world. That being said, I probably wouldn't give my 10-year-old son a game of the Manhunt series for Christmas... I really have no idea. I don't know. If they barely sold, would those big toy companies still bother investing in video games? If fewer good games are being made, couldn't it be that it just takes more to create a very good game? Video games have come a long way, with more options, better AI, multiplayer functions, slicker graphics and more promotion. I'm an RPG lover, so storyline and character development are quite important. Hence why I like the Final Fantasy and Xenosaga series. I like games with many options (and sidequests), though which keep a certain linearity. Pokémon and Suikoden are good examples, as well as Atelier Iris. I love the Shin Megami Tensei series too, for all of the above reasons and the certain...underground feel that it has. I don't know... Some RPGs are just so compelling that I forget any and all flaws that it has. Sorry for the half-assed explanation. XD Xenosaga did, but I forgot in what way. I'm sure there are others too. The Raving Rabbits franchise.
How do you see video games? Do you play simply for entertainment? Multiple reasons. I play for the story, for the sake of curiousity, and of course to have some fun in some sort of non-realistic world. Do you think video games can be considered art? And I'm not talking just high-def CG. It's art at possibly the highest form as it includes artwork, music, and a story(not many games have a good story though). When you pick up a game, how often do you find yourself completely wrapped up in it? Eh. Rarely. It takes a very special game to do that. It's usually the story and atmospheric effects that the story can pull off that makes me drawn into it. Have you ever played a game that has been considered to have terrible graphics (for the time it's from) but wanted to see the story, or vice versa (bad story/gameplay, good graphics)? Not that I can think of. The only games where I've actually cared about the story just so happened to have great graphics for their time. Why do you think gaming has become such a huge part of our everyday lives? Modernization. It's so much easier to get your hands on a video game and like it because of all the genres and styles of them. It's very hard to never come across a game that you will like. What is your opinion on the "video games make our kids violent" argument? I believe that the kids themselves must have a problem. It's just like the "guns don't kill people" argument...only less extreme(much less extreme, I gave a bad example I think XD). Given that there is somewhat of a recession going on around the world, do you think the gaming industry will suffer from it? Of course! Will that stop everybody from buying games? Hell no. A little recession won't kill off any massive companies like Ubisoft, Capcom, and Square Enix(and others of course). Overall, how do you think video games have progressed? Graphically and AI-wise, they've improved. In other areas...I've seen a bit of a decline in quality of the music and story. Do you think that fewer very good games are being made in order to produce games that barely sell but are from big toy companies? Like Barbie games for example. You could've worded that question better. For you, what makes a video game good? The whole atmosphere of it. Emotional music played at the right times, characters making memorable lines, the scenery, character development, and the good old-fashioned secret ingredient that makes some games legendary which I won't explain because it's too difficult to put into words. Has there ever been a game you've played that actually changed how you look at life, or at least made you think about things? Yes...sadly I can't remember which one. @-@ There has been one game though which has been so...amazing that I have never been able to bring myself to play through and beat it a second time, Secret of Mana. And for fun, what is the stupidest - yet somehow entertaining - game you've played or watched someone play? I honestly have no idea. Any video games that I actually see as being stupid are games I wouldn't want to play.
How do you see video games? Do you play simply for entertainment? Sometimes I see it as a way to get my frustrations out, maybe something to get my mind off of my life, or just for the heck of it. Do you think video games can be considered art? And I'm not talking just high-def CG. Oh yeah. For example, Final Fantasy puts a lot of details in their background and in the characters themselves to stimulate the human imagination to extend to a different world. It's a new, type of modern art. When you pick up a game, how often do you find yourself completely wrapped up in it? Depends on the game. Some of them I sit there for hours trying to get to the next level, and the world around me disappears. Other times, I get bored and find that I can easily stop and shut off the game system. Have you ever played a game that has been considered to have terrible graphics (for the time it's from) but wanted to see the story, or vice versa (bad story/gameplay, good graphics)? Sonic Riders wasn't the best thing in the world, but it had me interested for a while. But after playing Kingdom Hearts (even with some awkward character movements or lack of emotion in the facial expressions), I felt kind of spoiled. Why do you think gaming has become such a huge part of our everyday lives? To me, with RPGs, you can connect with the characters and their struggles, even if they're in a fansty world. For action, non RPG games, it's a way you can sit down and hang out with your friends or release your anger on fictional monsters. What is your opinion on the "video games make our kids violent" argument? I did a report on this a while back. I believe that the situations around the kid makes the kids violent, not the games. Like if the kid grew up in an angry household, and he's trying to express himself, he'll resort to the violent video games that'll show a reflection of how he sees his world. It won't make him violent though... Guess it really depends how mature the kid is though. Given that there is somewhat of a recession going on around the world, do you think the gaming industry will suffer from it? With the way they keep making all the game systems we really don't need right now, yeah. I'm still trying to catch up to buy a PSP and a PS3 and already they're trying to come out with something else we don't need. Like the Nintindo 3-D. B| Overall, how do you think video games have progressed? Do you think that fewer very good games are being made in order to produce games that barely sell but are from big toy companies? Like Barbie games for example. They progressed, but I think now it's starting to fade out with good story lines and plots. Yeah, I feel like the senseless, mindless games are coming out more and more than the really good stories like Fatal Frame, Kingdom Hearts, and Final Fantasy. For you, what makes a video game good? The graphics for one things, and the music adds to a lot of it. Lack of good music jsut makes the animation and the story line seem cheesy and weird. Also, if the character is kind of a slap-stick comedy character instead of having a diversity of personality, it also makes the game kind of boring. Has there ever been a game you've played that actually changed how you look at life, or at least made you think about things? Oh man, Fatal Frame for sure. I think that game gave me the ability to put myself in the main character's place and think, "What would I've done in a situation like that? Would I've done things differently? What if ghosts were real, and what if that actually happened to my friends." And for fun, what is the stupidest - yet somehow entertaining - game you've played or watched someone play? Don't hurt me: Super Mario World Wii. It's fun, but it's a bit stupid.
How do you see video games? Do you play simply for entertainment? Yes, only entertainment purposes I guess I just consider it as a hobby for the most part. Do you think video games can be considered art? And I'm not talking just high-def CG No, games can be inspired by a specific art style but as for the video game itself, no. When you pick up a game, how often do you find yourself completely wrapped up in it? Depends if I'm really into it Have you ever played a game that has been considered to have terrible graphics (for the time it's from) but wanted to see the story, or vice versa (bad story/gameplay, good graphics)? Personally graphics don't matter to me and sometimes RPG stories can be a bit cliché but if the game has great gameplay mechanics than it's fine with me. Why do you think gaming has become such a huge part of our everyday lives? As for me I grew up around videogames so idk many of us have the same intrest I guess What is your opinion on the "video games make our kids violent" argument? It's pointless. I have a friend who strictly plays shooters but they don't go around wanting to kill someone. Given that there is somewhat of a recession going on around the world, do you think the gaming industry will suffer from it? Tough question but I doubt it. xD Overall, how do you think video games have progressed? Do you think that fewer very good games are being made in order to produce games that barely sell but are from big toy companies? Like Barbie games for example. As long as game series I like get released it doesn't really matter to me For you, what makes a video game good? Gameplay & Story for the most part Has there ever been a game you've played that actually changed how you look at life, or at least made you think about things? Yes, a Japanese game that taught me by the end of the game that the character I had used ended up dying because I finished the whole game. It says to not take life too seriously ??? :0... idk really hard to explain. :\ And for fun, what is the stupidest - yet somehow entertaining - game you've played or watched someone play? - A Japanese dating sim xD - don't remember the name - . (and the one probably above)
How do you see video games? Do you play simply for entertainment?: Yep. Do you think video games can be considered art? And I'm not talking just high-def CG.: They're not intended to be. They can be, but at the end of the day, they're not meant to. When you pick up a game, how often do you find yourself completely wrapped up in it?: I get absorbed in it for several hours no matter how 'bad' it is. Have you ever played a game that has been considered to have terrible graphics (for the time it's from) but wanted to see the story, or vice versa (bad story/gameplay, good graphics)?: Hmm, for the vice verse, I can understand where everybody's coming from for FFXII. Political matters don't work all too well for video games. In fact, normally I'm just really not interested in those things at all. But dammit, I ended up completely enthralled. Crazy, huh? Why do you think gaming has become such a huge part of our everyday lives?: People wanna get away from reality. What is your opinion on the "video games make our kids violent" argument?: The types of video games you own don't cause your personality, they reflect it. You buy an overly violent video game, you probably already had an overly violent side, with no way to express it (unless you're insane, of course). Given that there is somewhat of a recession going on around the world, do you think the gaming industry will suffer from it?: Eh. I'm not much of an economist. Overall, how do you think video games have progressed? Do you think that fewer very good games are being made in order to produce games that barely sell but are from big toy companies? Like Barbie games for example.: (This is one of those 'look at the old days, everything's a classic, look at today, everything's only produced to make money' question, huh?) Dude, you have any idea how old those kinds of games are? It's a tie-in game that caused the crash of '83. And I used to have a Barbie game for PS1. Nice opening FMV for the day, but the gameplay really sucked. For you, what makes a video game good?: I don't have a clue myself. I think, when I play, I don't judge good or bad in any aspect. It just becomes something to do, and I'll smile through it. Has there ever been a game you've played that actually changed how you look at life, or at least made you think about things?: Kingdom Hearts II. Are Nobodies what my AS looks like to other people...? And for fun, what is the stupidest - yet somehow entertaining - game you've played or watched someone play?: Er... In video games, there are no stupid ideas. Whatever it is? It'll work, trust me, trust me.
Bloody hell, who let DP loose in the debate forum? *staff attacks* KIDDING!!! KIDDING!!!!!!!!! How do you see video games? Do you play simply for entertainment? Hmm..... I see video games as a lot of things. I see it as an escape from life, I see it as a way to see different worlds and sometimes even learn from the games. I see games sometimes as a source of frustration and then accomplishment. Like an extremely hard level that you finally beat. It can bring me to tears and laughter by watching it and it makes me feel something different every time I pick one up. It is entertainment, but it's also a source of something else I can't really describe. Do you think video games can be considered art? And I'm not talking just high-def CG. Yes, I do, art takes many forms in my POV. A good book could be an art form with a story that brings excitement and adventure to someone as the same as an art critic would be to a painting. A story, characters and yes, the graphics all are part of the same work of art. There could be good or bad games like good or bad paintings. It takes a lot of hard work and imagination to create art as it does a game. I'd say it's practically the same. When you pick up a game, how often do you find yourself completely wrapped up in it? It depends on the game, the more recent games I don't find myself nearly as wrapped up as I used to, sadly enough, except a few, The World Ends with You and Kingdom Hearts series. I can still pick up the Legend of Zelda Orcarina of Time and Illusion of Gaia and get lost for hours in the storyline and gameplay. Even Harvest Moon 64 when I'm in the right mood gives me that in-depth feeling where hours pass and I don't even notice. One time I played the whole day away on that game without noticing. Have you ever played a game that has been considered to have terrible graphics (for the time it's from) but wanted to see the story, or vice versa (bad story/gameplay, good graphics)? Hmmm... That's a hard one. I'm not sure, I really don't follow reviews for the games I play that closely unless I'm on the fence. I'd have to say I'm more story/gameplay than graphics. I can't sit through a Final Fantasy game anymore despite it's terrific graphics due to the story lines, and several other games, too. Why do you think gaming has become such a huge part of our everyday lives? Gaming ALWAYS been a part of my life. My brother's too. Yes, Wii has revolutionized it and now it has a huge market due to better marketing/games for more people. Games in the 1980's has been a part of people's lives as it is now. Just a much bigger market. What is your opinion on the "video games make our kids violent" argument? I do agree that kids shouldn't be playing GTA, due to the sexual content and yes, there is sexual content in the game. I don't care how much people argue otherwise. I also agree on the other ones that are just so horrendously violent it's ridiculous. I did play Mortal Kombat growing up as a kid and it freaked me out after a while. I don't think that the video games are what makes kids violent, I don't think that at all. I do strongly believe in the ESRB though and should keep it as is. The people who complain about it can wait a few more years to reach the age where they can play it. Given that there is somewhat of a recession going on around the world, do you think the gaming industry will suffer from it? Yes, I believe that the gaming industry if not already affected will suffer soon. I think with the current trend of the video game industry shelling out money with cash cow games most of the time instead of the good ones that were made in the 90's shows that they're suffering. Overall, how do you think video games have progressed? Do you think that fewer very good games are being made in order to produce games that barely sell but are from big toy companies? Like Barbie games for example. I think it has actually fallen back. yes, there are excellent games still being made out there. They're mostly original, two being Kingdom Hearts, and The World Ends With You. But there hasn't been another Final Fantasy VII or another Legend of Zelda Link to the Past in a very long time. Where it's a sequel to an already excellent series that blows the doors even wider open for that series. The series games, in my honest point of view, have slowly started to sadly fall apart as original ones take its place rapidly that are well-made. The problem is, the originals don't get that much attention while the sequels get a lot more. The 90's will always have a place in my heart for the best games out there. And yes, they're making fewer games that are up to the standards of say Orcarina of Time. Don't get me into the Barbie/Petz/other games. I see red when I hear about it. For you, what makes a video game good? It's not one thing, it's many. For me, it's the story right out of the gate, is the story interesting? Does it catch your interest and can you understand it at least to the point where you want to go on? If you're reading a book through the intro, that means the game won't hold my interest long enough to continue till the end. Can you relate to the characters or are they at least tolerable to the point where you hate/annoyed/sympathize with them? Even a character who you want to murder, or dance on his grave in joy, or want to kill on sight, that is a good villain. Sephiroth and Seymour are excellent examples of this. Or another side, a character who you feel pain for, who you cry with when he/she cries, that brings you right next to them and makes you them. One of my most memorable games is Illusion of Gaia, a boy loses his father and is trying to find him. Playing through the game on the SNES you face the horrors and beauty of humanity in every town, village, temple and place you go to. I have never forgotten the game, the graphics were okay for that point in next gen, but it's the storyline that brings you in and holds you there to continue it. The music is the next thing that brings you in, a soft haunting melody of sadness when grieving, or the harsh, fast melody for fighting brings the player more in, delving them deeper in the world that they already have started into. The gameplay should be that you're the person. Wii has come the closest to it, but when you're moving, it should feel like it's you moving sitting in the chair. When you use your weapon, it should feel as if it's you who's using it. Has there ever been a game you've played that actually changed how you look at life, or at least made you think about things? Yes, The Illusion of Gaia and The World Ends With You. Illusion of Gaia for all the beauty a world holds and it's terrible secrets, and The World Ends With You for its plotline and what you learn while playing it. And for fun, what is the stupidest - yet somehow entertaining - game you've played or watched someone play? Cheetahmen.
Combination of Entertainment and some form of escapism. Of course. Hell, if an unmade bed can be considered art, why not a Video Game? Very few, if any games will fulfill that criteria though. Only one instance occurs to me, and that's only because I'm horribly biased in favour of it. That's what I do when I play games. I enter into it's world. I immerse myself into it, in order to make the most of my experience. When I got Red Dead Redemption, I must've watched a good 3-4 westerns to get the feel of the atmosphere and kind of world the game took place inside. All the time, but since when do graphics make the game? It's a contributing factor, true, but rarely detracts from the experience. Gaming has become a huge part of MY everyday life because it offers me so many new perspectives on people's stories, and an oppourtunity to actually make a few friends with a common interest. I can't speak on behalf of everyone, but I'd imagine simply because it's another way of enjoying your entertainment by adding interactivity. Huge load of bullshit Probably not much. If anything it'll improve. People get more depressed in a recession, so are more willing to spend what money they have on sources of entertainment I don't think that people are purposefully producing fewer good quality games. If you go into making a game with the intention of it being low quality, you might as well resign there and then. There's just less money and less efort going into making them, and a lot of the really cheap cash-in titles are just that, investing as little as possible to make the greatest profit from a new media source. Engaging, oftentimes intricate storyline, large depth and playtime, interesting characters, and enjoyable, fun gameplay. Only once: The World Ends With You. That game made me really think over my place in culture and society, as well as my own social habits and the attitudes of others. It's probably one of the deepest pieces of entertainment I've had the great pleasure to experience, the only other notable one being Watchmen.(Although Watchmen didn't make me think over my life half as much as TWEWY did) Either Dead Rising or Left 4 Dead.
How do you see video games? Do you play simply for entertainment? I see videogames as both a form of entertainment and a form of escape from your real life, since in real life you’re just some normal guy, while you can be these badass heroes in video games. Though I play mainly for entertainment myself. Do you think video games can be considered art? And I'm not talking just high-def CG. Videogames can most definitely be considered art, some games make worlds come to live and be living, breathing things. Lots of games are developers expressing their feelings and trying to express emotions, like for example with Ico and Shadow of the Colossus. When you pick up a game, how often do you find yourself completely wrapped up in it? When I was younger I was always completely wrapped up in pretty much every game when I bought them, I just couldn’t stop playing them. Now that I’m older though it’s for the very most part not like that at all, most of the time I’ll often go several days between playing a game I just bought. There are still some cases where I’ll just have to play the game, like the most recent is New Vegas (which I’m actually playing right now as I’m writing this), where I really just can’t stop playing the game because I just want to see how everything is gonna turn out. So yeah, it’s mostly a good story that will keep me addicted to a game. Have you ever played a game that has been considered to have terrible graphics (for the time it's from) but wanted to see the story, or vice versa (bad story/gameplay, good graphics)? The first game that comes to mind is the original Mafia, which had horrible graphics for the time, sub-par gameplay, but an amazing storyline. I literally just played that game for the story and to see how it turned out for the characters. Why do you think gaming has become such a huge part of our everyday lives? Because when the world is at such a low as it is nowadays videogames have become a nice window for us to escape it and enjoy ourself. Also the fact that they’re just plain ol’ fun. What is your opinion on the "video games make our kids violent" argument? It is pretty ridiculous if you ask me, playing a violent video game will not make a normal, sane kid go mentally insane out of nowhere. While I must say that I’m sure that videogames can move the process along for those who are already mentally ill, but the thing is that sooner or later something would have still made them snap, be it videogames or anything else. Given that there is somewhat of a recession going on around the world, do you think the gaming industry will suffer from it? It already has suffered, loads of gaming companies are going out of business and a lot of the major publishers are bleeding money like crazy. I remember fiscal quarter, whatever Christmas is in, Activision still lost money despite the fact that they released the fastest selling game of all time. The fact that nowadays gamers won’t buy games that don’t have the super advanced graphics and stuff, so the budgets usually get pretty big for most games, this with the recession is enough to kill off a lot of little game developers. Overall, how do you think video games have progressed? Do you think that fewer very good games are being made in order to produce games that barely sell but are from big toy companies? Like Barbie games for example. Videogames have progressed quite a bit, from getting much more mainstream to graphics and gameplay evolving over time, be that for the better or worse is up to the individual person though. Yeah I don’t think I made any sense, I’m playing New Vegas so shut up. D: For you, what makes a video game good? The most important part of a good game is the gameplay, if a game has good gameplay then pretty much everything else can be forgiven. If a game should be really good for me though then it has to have a decent story, good gameplay and a good atmosphere. I don’t care about the graphics for the most part, but if it’s stylish then it can add to my enjoyment of the game. Has there ever been a game you've played that actually changed how you look at life, or at least made you think about things? Well not really changed my view on life as a whole, but there are several games that have changed me a little as a person I’d think. And for fun, what is the stupidest - yet somehow entertaining - game you've played or watched someone play? Katamari Damacy. No explanation needed.
How do you see video games? Do you play simply for entertainment? Basically, they are purely entertainment for me and I tend to want to play more to distract me from tasks I don't enjoy. Do you think video games can be considered art? And I'm not talking just high-def CG. I think so. I mean, a lot of aspects play into video games, some of which are usually used to enhance feeling/emotion and awe. ICO and Shadow of the Colossus are a couple games where actual gameplay is simplistic and the atmosphere is just so beautiful (scenery, music, etc.). And frankly, I consider more games artwork than a lot of Modernism/abstract art in the traditional sense. When you pick up a game, how often do you find yourself completely wrapped up in it? It depends on the game. I play a lot of RPGs, so I do find myself playing for hours at a time when first getting them, to get into the story. Later on, I sometimes see myself as a character, really trying to accomplish what they are in the game. Have you ever played a game that has been considered to have terrible graphics (for the time it's from) but wanted to see the story, or vice versa (bad story/gameplay, good graphics)? I enjoy playing older games that may not have what is considered terrible graphics when they were first out, but are now. Like the first four FFs and FF7 for Playstation, some of the older Sonic games, etc. Why do you think gaming has become such a huge part of our everyday lives? Because it is like any other form of entertainment. But beyond what movies/shows are, you actually get the chance to control aspects of the games. What is your opinion on the "video games make our kids violent" argument? I do think violent games desensitize people to aspects of life-cursing, sex, anger, etc.-but I believe that about any material people expose themselves to for extended periods of time. Most of the time, I think children play violent video games because they already have some kind of exposure/thoughts about violence (and lack of parenting since parents shouldn't be letting them play such games in the first place). Given that there is somewhat of a recession going on around the world, do you think the gaming industry will suffer from it? I don't know. I mean, here in America, consumerism can be quite resilient. Sadly, I think as long as the newest/hottest toys come out, Americans will stampede to get them (almost holding entertainment outlets in higher regard than needs). Overall, how do you think video games have progressed? Do you think that fewer very good games are being made in order to produce games that barely sell but are from big toy companies? Like Barbie games for example. Graphically/technologically, games have improved a great deal over just a few years. Now content-wise, it is a bit of a grey area. I do think that since the gaming industry has grown, companies hold profit in higher regard than quality in most aspects. I think newer games do leave a bit to be desired, but I don't know if it is a lull in the gaming industry, or a continual decline as of yet. For you, what makes a video game good? I'm mainly about story (I mainly play RPGs). "Good" graphics can be a bonus, but not entirely necessary. Gameplay is not really a huge factor for me, either-as long as it is understandable and lacks glitches, I'm good. Has there ever been a game you've played that actually changed how you look at life, or at least made you think about things? There have been storylines that really made me think, maybe not on life aspects entirely but interesting concepts. And for fun, what is the stupidest - yet somehow entertaining - game you've played or watched someone play? Can't really think of one right now, but I'm sure I have.
How do you see video games? Do you play simply for entertainment? Usually it's just to pass the time, other times it's to come as close as I can to experiencing certain things, without actually doing it. Do you think video games can be considered art? And I'm not talking just high-def CG. Of course. There are many games that I would consider to be great works of art, and not just as far as graphics are concerned. It can be the way the game is put together, the story, the concept. Dragon Age doesn't have the greatest graphics, but the choices you have to make, and how the character interact with each other is art to me. Demon's Souls is another game like that, just the way the game is put together is beautiful When you pick up a game, how often do you find yourself completely wrapped up in it? Every once in a while, it usually has to be an RPG with an open world setting. Assassin's Creed 2 is one that is different though, I was totally lost in that game. Have you ever played a game that has been considered to have terrible graphics (for the time it's from) but wanted to see the story, or vice versa (bad story/gameplay, good graphics)? Fallout New Vegas, bad graphics, the game feels recycled, but the exploration, the story, the gameplay, all fantastic. Why do you think gaming has become such a huge part of our everyday lives? Because life can suck sometimes, and like with movies, people like an escape, to get lost in someone else's world. What is your opinion on the "video games make our kids violent" argument? No comment Overall, how do you think video games have progressed? Do you think that fewer very good games are being made in order to produce games that barely sell but are from big toy companies? Like Barbie games for example. I feel that fewer games keep me hooked than before. The graphics are getting better, but the concepts feel so recycled nowadays, there are some that aren't though. For you, what makes a video game good? Good story, non-linear. Graphics aren't important. Originality makes up for a lot of things though and usually makes a game great. However, some games feel like they have recycled concepts, but are done well. You don't always have to have an original idea, sometimes if you take someone else's idea and make it better, the result can still be fantastic. Dragon Age for example. Humans, Elfs and Dwarfs having to defeat some demons. Sounds old and boring, but it's still better than most games like it because of the way it's put together. Has there ever been a game you've played that actually changed how you look at life, or at least made you think about things? Eh, not really, other than wanting to be a cowboy after playing Red Dead Redemption. xD And for fun, what is the stupidest - yet somehow entertaining - game you've played or watched someone play? Toe Jam and Earl, it was totally awesome though.
How do you see video games? Do you play simply for entertainment? In the simplest form, they are interactive movies for entertainment and pleasure. In not so simple terms they are a fundemental means of conveying messages, thoughts, inspiration, fun, enjoyment, thrilling and detailed forms of entertainment that can simply entertain or even inspire others to be creative. Do you think video games can be considered art? And I'm not talking just high-def CG. Games are exactly like paintings, literature and movies in the sense of the word art. Not only through look, but also the power to convey messages to the world such as the (semi) reality of the lives people live in games like Grand Theft Auto, to the tough moral decisions of life like Mass Effect and Heavy Rain and even the detailed plots and narratives of some games like Metal Gear Solid. All thse things are art. When you pick up a game, how often do you find yourself completely wrapped up in it? A good story of any kind will always get me wrapped up in a game. Heavy Rain was a great example of a game that left me wanting me to find more to the point that I played it for 8 hours till I finished the story. I loved it and that's the type of thing that keeps me coming back to games. Have you ever played a game that has been considered to have terrible graphics (for the time it's from) but wanted to see the story, or vice versa (bad story/gameplay, good graphics)? Alpha Protocol is considered a real sub-par game in almost every respect, from graphics, gameplay, enemy AI and glitches. However, I found the overall story something wonderful and truely unique. It really deserves a sequel to fix all the problems it had and deliver another trely great story. Why do you think gaming has become such a huge part of our everyday lives? HUmans love fiction of any sought. I tallows them to escape the everyday life we lead and do sometihng amazing, just like a movie or book. What is your opinion on the "video games make our kids violent" argument? Violence resulting from video games is at worst minimal. If it were truely that bad, every kid should be going out and blowing other people's brains out with an assault rifle, yet obviously this isnt the case. Those who have ever commited a truely horrorific violent crime has always been late to be diagnosed with some ort of mental illness, a mental illness that usually has the effect of not be able to tell the difference between fantasy and reality. I blame society for diagnosing illnesses early enough, and not games. Given that there is somewhat of a recession going on around the world, do you think the gaming industry will suffer from it? People will buy comforts in the worst of times. Sales in bakeries rose high in England during the recession, it was claimed because that people needed some type of comfort food for depression. Games have been said to serve in this manner too. Though in real life this didn't happen, games could still make the best of the situation I believe. Overall, how do you think video games have progressed? Do you think that fewer very good games are being made in order to produce games that barely sell but are from big toy companies? Like Barbie games for example. There are always going to be companies exploiting brand names like Barbie in the video gaming market. As long as it raises awareness to new gamers that video games are fun fulfilling medium I don't mind so much. For you, what makes a video game good? Story. Characers. Gameplay. Music. Graphics. In that order. Oh and voice acting, otherwise it wouldn't seem realistic or immersive enough. Has there ever been a game you've played that actually changed how you look at life, or at least made you think about things? Yeah, certainely. It's made me think about life, death, humanity, the future, our past, morality, culture and people. I've questioned myself alot after what i've seen or heard in video games. I talso inspired me to write, so it's even given me a career opportunity in English and Creative Writing, so I can say with confidence I wouldn't be the same person without them. And for fun, what is the stupidest - yet somehow entertaining - game you've played or watched someone play? We Love Katamari. Great series because of addictive gaming, and great music. And Plants vs Zombies. What a weird world.
