But… is it Kosher?
Posted on March 2nd, 2010 by Punning Pundit
My rule of thumb is: if it sets out to provoke — and succeeds– an intellectual or emotional response, it’s art.
Penny Arcade tells us that Heavy Rain is art:
If you’re a parent, (especially a Dad) this game can be pretty difficult to play at times. In fact I’m curious if people who don’t have kids will end up getting as much out of it. I don’t know if it’s an 89.85%, or a 9.7 out of 10. What I do know is that after a late night playing it, I sneak into my son’s room and hug him before I go to bed. I think Heavy Rain is probably one of the most important games ever made. Maybe not one of the best, but definitely important.
I agree. I’ve only seen the demo for this game, but it was extremely well done. Everything about it, from the wonderfully detailed and realistic graphics, to the ambient sounds/music and interactions with the NPC’s was all aiming at producing an emotional response… and I think that’s definitely art – as much as making a movie, drawing a painting, or taking that perfect photograph.
I’m not sure if I’d be able to play that game myself… I wouldn’t have the option of going into my son’s room at night to hug him.