Video Games in/as Culture: The Evolving Cultural Significance of Video Games

Abstract

Abstract This article explores the cultural significance of video games through a workshop that brought together academics and leading industry professionals representing the cultural, media, sport and games industries. The workshop was not only used for its traditional role of dissemination, but also as a methodological tool to review and examine the current state of the video game industry. The workshop focused on highlighting the crossover of video games with other cultural industries, such as film, fashion, and sports, and discussed the industry’s role in shaping and reflecting our cultural fabric. Despite video games’ growing cultural impact, the workshop participants also identified significant barriers — referred to as the “playwall” — that limit wider engagement with gaming. These include persistent stigma, exclusionary language, lack of diversity, and media literacy challenges. The panelists emphasized the need for greater inclusivity and the importance of showcasing diverse narratives within games to broaden their appeal and cultural relevance. Thus, this article sheds light on the evolving role of video games in contemporary culture and underscores the necessity of addressing barriers to make the industry more inclusive and accessible.