Aesthetic Analysis of Mythological Conflicts in Digital Interactive Media (Case Study: Video Games)

Introduction: Video games are characterized by technology, the communication environment, and audience understanding. That is, this type of media uses technology in the context of two-way communication, and the audience can play the role of producing, distributing and managing the message by using the communication technology provided to them. On the other hand, myth emerged with people, changed and evolved and has continued in narrative forms and along with artistic and literary works. The necessity and importance of the research is that with the increasing popularity of video games, it is important to examine how these games are used to interpret and transmit mythological values. This research can help to better understand the influence of mythology on the human mind and the role of video games in promoting culture and art.
Purposes & Questions: The aim of this research is the aesthetic examination of mythological confrontations in video games, and also after explaining the relationship between myth, aesthetics and confrontation, by examining mythological confrontations in video games, an attempt has been made to answer the question of what the mythological confrontations in these games are and how and with what mechanism they have created aesthetic pleasure in the audience. The research questions are: in what way and with what mechanism have the mythological confrontations in video games created aesthetic pleasure in the audience.
Methods: This research is based on a theoretical and descriptive-analytical research method. The method of collecting data is documentary and library research, along with observation of works, and the means of gathering information is observation and a new scanning tool. Examples of video games inspired by mythology are studied. The authors examined four cases selectively (non-probability sampling), two examples of international games inspired by Iranian mythology and two examples of video games made in Iran using a qualitative analysis method. This means that according to the initial familiarity with games and works, examples have been selected that are able to provide the desired information in this research in order to be effective in understanding the research problem.
Findings & Results: It can be argued that mythological confrontations in video games generate aesthetic pleasure for players through several interconnected mechanisms. Firstly, interactive storytelling enables players to actively participate in mythological narratives and engage directly with characters, an involvement that goes beyond passive observation and fosters a sense of immersion within the story world. Secondly, strong characterization, particularly in confrontations between heroes and anti‑heroes, presents complex and multidimensional figures whose emotions and motivations encourage player identification and deepen enjoyment. Thirdly, the visual and artistic experience—shaped by art direction, graphics, and visual effects—enhances aesthetic perception through the use of color, lighting, and environmental design inspired by mythological elements. Fourthly, music and voice-over play a crucial role in establishing atmosphere and emotional resonance, conveying feelings such as tension, excitement, or calm, and thereby influencing the overall experience. Fifthly, challenges and rewards inherent in mythic encounters create a sense of achievement, further engaging players in the narrative and its characters. Sixthly, video games offer opportunities for cultural and social analysis embedded within mythological confrontations, prompting players to reflect on their own values and norms and enriching their aesthetic experience. Finally, such mythic encounters can strengthen a sense of belonging to a particular culture or community, leading to a deeper and more meaningful engagement with the game. By combining these mechanisms, video games can provide players with a rich and enjoyable experience that is not only entertaining but also thought-provoking. As a result, the aesthetic analysis of mythological confrontations in video games shows that this medium, as an interactive and engaging platform, has been able to depict cultural and mythological elements in a new and effective way. Hero and anti-hero confrontations, cultural and social conflicts, as well as symbolic representation of deep human concepts, all add to the richness of the game stories and experiences. On the other hand, the use of creative art design, appropriate music and interactive storytelling has helped to create a unique atmosphere that invites players to think and reflect on their cultural values ​​and norms. This interaction not only provides an entertaining experience, but also supports education and cultural transmission. Finally, as a modern medium, video games have a high potential for aesthetic analysis and can play an important role in preserving and promoting cultural myths and narratives.