What is art? We can't really define it objectively but nevertheless know it when we see it. To say that WoW isn't a work of art because it is "only a game" is tantamount to saying that Lord of the Rings isn't a work of art because it is only a movie or a book. Of course WoW qualifies as a work or art by almost any reasonable definition of what art may be.

WoW is an animated movie and taken as such is a splendid piece of work that transcends Disney's best. Better yet, think of it as a collection of interactive animated movies. Each has its own distinctive settings, characters, plots, surprises, mysteries and music. And, lucky us, we get to play a role in plot development for ourselves and others.

Video games are a creative medium that requires a synthesis of artistic skills and when all meet high standards the result is something that transcends mere design and enters the realm of fine art. I have no doubt that theses, dissertations and college seminars dealing with video game art are soon to come if they haven't already arrived.

What we consider to be art and our capacity to enjoy is certainly the product of psychology and sociology and, perhaps, a few other elements as well. Your two articles have allowed some readers to view WoW through the prism of your aesthetic sense and, I would guess, has improved their appreciation of the game. Well done!

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