Mass Effect 3 and the Art of Criticism

We stand on the precipice of a whole new acknowledgement and redefinition of this artistic medium, and, for better or worse, Mass Effect and this whole ending saga is at the forefront of that debate. Perhaps something profound can come from this tumultuous time in spite of the often needless animosity, but it won't arrive if the general consensus is that we should apply old thinking to new media, and yell at anyone who disagrees. But I have faith, because €“ at the risk of sounding far too gooey €“ my sole comfort throughout this disappointing period has been the voices of debate, analysis and critique that I have found in the very fans (amongst which I number myself) who have often been needlessly maligned or categorised as whiners, people invested enough to be dissatisfied with an inconclusive artwork, who still care enough to long for something more. Ultimately, were it not for this collection of vibrant, multifaceted voices, and the cathartic sharing and discussion that they have provided, I know I would not have been able to do anything with my disappointment besides ulcerate in fury. If nothing else, this whole mess has proved that there are places to go for intelligent, reasoned, considerate discussion on the videogame medium as a valid art form (Indeed, I have found my own wonderful alcove of conversation). Apparently it just might not be anywhere around Colin Moriarty. And for that I am extremely grateful.
Contributor

drayfish (Colin Dray) is a Lecturer in Literature at Campion College of the Liberal Arts, Australia. He enjoys breathing both in and out at sequential intervals, scratching when itchy, and can survive on a diet of instant coffee and handfuls of chocolate if his chair is periodically tilted towards the sun. ...And yes, he realises that his name is Dr. Dray. His blog can be found at: http://drayfish.wordpress.com/