Video Games As Religious Art Experiences. Is The Time, Now?

VENTURE BEAT
By Louie Castro-Garcia

Screen shot from Journey

Video games are, arguably, the most interactive form of entertainment we have, and yet, they have been slow to achieve the kind of experiential status that is often associated with art, music, literature, and film. Last year saw the release of many titles that challenged this notion. Among them was Thatgamecompany’s PlayStation 3 exclusive, Journey, which has received heaps of praise and made many video game enthusiasts’ Game-of-the-Year lists. Those who have already played Journey already know that it has been hyped and lauded for good reason. Games are being talked about in religious contexts from Buddhism to Catholicism. It has to do with their ability to let us experience. [link]

What makes Journey stand out so much as an experience can perhaps be linked to its inherent spirituality. Thatgamecompany’s director Jenova Chen has openly discussed the game’s religious themes many times and has said that “many religions share an affinity with Journey.” Reviewers like James Plafke agreed and said “the game doesn’t shove any kind of religion or specific religious ideals down players’ throats but encapsulates broad, basic themes of a higher power and the journey toward self-discovery and motivation to which most religions adhere.” Some players even created a blog where they could share their experiences with the game. [Full video here...trailer below]