Video Games As Art

[Pete for President]

I don't have a waterproof theory about this, but from the top of my head I consider a game to be art when it does either of these 3;

- Translates or reflects real life problems of society in a neutral and inspiring way, while leaving enough space for debate as in; there's no black and white situation.

- Sparks a wide range of different emotions using several means (be it music, the environment, happening events or words).

- Experiments with interaction between real life strangers where there is no expectation or rule how to behave given up front.

Some games I'd recommend:
FFX - heavy themes on religion, indoctrination, death and racism.
Dark Souls - it's basically one big vanitas (artpiece where "nothing lasts" is the theme).
Journey - Mostly the player interaction thing, but it also sparks emotion using music and the environment.