EVOLUTION OF VIDEO GAME GRAPHICS AND ANIMATION

IN PC GAMES AND THE IMPACT

IT HAS ON USERS

BY

SATARUPA SINHA

MMFI, St. Xavier’s College, 2023

A DISSERTATION

Submitted in Partial Fulfilment of the Degree of M.Sc.

(Masters in Multimedia with specialization in Animation)

St. Xavier’s College (Autonomous)

The University of Calcutta, November 2023

Guide: Palran Biswas, Assistant Professor, Department of

Multimedia and Animation.

i
 THESIS ACCEPTANCE STATEMENT

As a guide for SATARUPA SINHA, I affirm that this manuscript

is the final and accepted thesis.

Palran Biswas, Asst. Professor, Date:

Department of Multimedia and Animation

ii
 LIBRARY RIGHTS STATEMENT

In presenting this thesis in partial fulfillment of the

requirements for M.Sc. degree at St. Xavier’s College

(Autonomous), I agree that the library shall make it freely

available for inspection. I further agree that permission for

“fair use” copying of this thesis for scholarly purposes may

be granted by the Librarian. It is understood that any copying

or publication of this thesis for scholarly purposes may be

granted by the Librarian. It is understood that any copying or

publication of this thesis for financial gain shall not be

allowed without my written permission.

Signature:

Date:

iii
EVOLUTION OF VIDEO GAME GRAPHICS AND ANIMATION

IN PC GAMES AND THE IMPACT

IT HAS ON USERS

By Satarupa Sinha

Thesis Advisor: Asst.Prof. Palran Biswas

An Abstract of the Thesis Presented in Partial Fulfilment of

the Requirements for the Degree of M.Sc.

(Masters in Multimedia with specialization in Animation)

November 2023

This thesis follows the evolution of games from pixelated

landscapes to the realism present in more recent releases. The

thesis examines the dynamic progression of video game

animation and graphics within the context of PC gaming. By

examining the technological innovations and artistic creations

that have fuelled this progression, the study seeks to shed

iv
insight on how the shift in graphics is also affecting gamers

psychologically.

The impact that changing animation and images have on gamers

is also examined in the thesis, considering both psychological

aspects and how it influences them. The thesis examines how

technological developments, like enhanced rendering methods,

greater screen resolutions, accurate physics models and smooth

animation, impact the entire gaming experience. The thesis

also looks at how creative decisions affect game design,

looking at how creators use animation and graphics to elicit

strong feelings from players and improve player immersion.

This thesis uses a combination of qualitative and quantitative

research, with case study on popular PC games and taking a

survey from gamers, to provide a thorough understanding of the

intricate relationships between developing visuals, animation,

and the gaming community. The findings add to the discussions

regarding potential future directions for video game

development by revealing information about the preferences and

expectations of contemporary players.

In summary, this thesis provides a thorough analysis of the

evolution of PC video game animation and graphics, shedding

light on its impact on the gaming experience. As the gaming

business pushes the boundaries of visual quality, people must

understand the symbiotic relationship between technology,

artistry, and player involvement.

v
To Ma and Baba

vi
 ACKNOWLEDGMENT

I would like to thank Father Dejus John Retnam for giving us

this amazing opportunity for creating my very first thesis. I

would like to thank him and Prof. Palran Biswas for helping me

complete my thesis in every way possible and providing proper

guidance and inspiration. I would also like to thank my

parents for their constant support and my friends who kept

encouraging me and helping me.

vii
 LIST OF FIGURES

1. Fig. 1. 15

2. Fig. 2. 16

3. Fig. 3. 16

4. Fig. 4. 17

5. Fig. 5. 18

6. Fig. 6. 19

7. Fig. 7. 19

8. Fig. 8. 20

9. Fig. 9. 21

viii
 CONTENTS

1. Introduction 1

2. Historical Development of PC Games Graphics 3

2.1 1970s-1980s: The Birth of Pixel Art 3

2.2 1980s-1990s: Rise of 2D Graphics 3

2.3 Early 1990s: Introduction of 3D Graphics 3

2.4 Mid-1990s: Rise of 3D Acceleration 3

2.5 Late 1990s-2000s: Graphics Cards Evolution 3

2.6 Mid-2000s: Introduction of Shader Technology 4

2.7 Late 2000s-2010s: High-Definition and

Physically-Based Rendering 4

2.8 2010s-Present: Ray Tracing and 4K Gaming 4

3. Animation in PC Games 5

3.1 The evolution of animation techniques in PC games 5

3.1.1 Sprite-based Animation (1980s-1990s) 5

3.1.2 3D Modelling and Skeletal Animation (Late

1990s) 5

3.1.3 Motion Capture (Early 2000s) 5

3.1.4 Procedural Animation (Mid-2000s onwards) 6

ix
 3.1.5 Physics-based Animation (Late 2000s onwards) 6

3.1.6 Facial Animation and Emotion Capture (2010s) 6

3.1.7 Real-time Ray Tracing and AI (Late 2010s

onwards) 6

3.2 Influence of cinematic and storytelling trends on

game animation 6

3.2.1 Realism and Detail 7

3.2.2 Narrative-driven Gameplay 7

3.2.3 Cinematic Cutscenes 7

3.2.4 Interactive Storytelling 7

3.2.5 Emphasis on Cinematography 7

3.2.6 Integration of Storytelling Tools 7

3.2.7 Cross-media Collaboration 8

3.2.8 Character-driven Experiences 8

3.2.9 Use of Cinematic Techniques in Gameplay 8

3.2.10 High Production Values 8

3.3 Importance of character animation 9

3.3.1 Enhancing Realism and Immersion 9

3.3.2 Emotional Engagement 9

3.3.3 Communication and Feedback 9

x
 3.3.4 Narrative Support 9

3.3.5 Gameplay Clarity 9

3.4 Motion capture technology and its impact

on realism 10

3.4.1 Realistic Character Movements 10

3.4.2 Emotional Expression 10

3.4.3 Authentic Combat Animations 10

3.4.4 Improved Lip Syncing 10

3.4.5 Increased Development Efficiency 10

3.4.6 Customization and Personalization 11

3.4.7 Enhanced Immersion 11

3.4.8 Accessibility and Inclusivity 11

4. The Impact on Gamers 12

4.1 Immersive Experience 12

4.2 Emotional Engagement 12

4.3 Gameplay Dynamics 12

4.4 Innovation and Creativity 12

4.5 Social and Competitive Aspects 13

4.6 Technological Advancements 13

4.7 Expectation and Anticipation 13

xi
 4.8 Marketing and Sales 13

4.9 Accessibility and Inclusivity 13

4.10 Longevity of Games 13

5. Case Study: The Sims Games 15

5.1 The Sims (2000) 15

5.2 The Sims 2 (2004) 16

5.3 The Sims 3 (2009) 16

5.4 The Sims 4(2014) 17

5.5 DLCs and Expansion Packs 17

5.6 Mods and Community Contributions 17

6. Survey report 18

7. Conclusion 22

8. Bibliography 23

9. Biography of the Author 24

xii
 CHAPTER 1

INTRODUCTION

In the realm of digital entertainment, the evolution of video

game graphics and animation stands as a testament to the

relentless pursuit of immersive experiences within the gaming

industry. Over the years, PC games have undergone a remarkable

transformation, transcending the boundaries of mere pixels to

reach a level of visual and interactive perfection that

captivates the hearts and minds of gamers worldwide. This

thesis delves into the intricate tapestry of this evolution,

exploring the technological milestones, artistic innovations,

and the profound impact this visual revolution has had on the

gaming community.

As we embark on this exploration, we journey back to the

rudimentary days of gaming when blocky sprites and limited

colour palettes defined the visual landscape. From the

pixelated pioneers to the photorealistic masterpieces of

today, the trajectory of video game graphics unfolds like a

digital odyssey, shaped by advancements in hardware, software,

and the boundless creativity of game developers. This journey

not only encapsulates the technological progression but also

1
reflects the symbiotic relationship between technology and

artistry, where the pursuit of realism coexists with the

freedom of imaginative expression.

Beyond the surface aesthetics, we scrutinize the dynamic realm

of animation—a crucial companion to graphics in crafting

compelling gaming experiences. From the stilted movements of

early characters to the fluidity of motion capture and

procedural animation, the evolution of animation techniques

has been pivotal in elevating the emotional resonance and

narrative depth of PC games. The dance between visual fidelity

and artistic expression has given rise to games that are not

merely played but experienced—a form of interactive art that

transcends the traditional boundaries of storytelling.

However, as we celebrate the visual splendour of modern PC

games, it is imperative to discern the impact of this

evolution on the gaming community.

2
How do heightened graphics and animation capabilities

influence player immersion, emotional engagement, and the

overall gaming experience? Does the pursuit of realism enhance

or alter the way gamers perceive and interact with virtual

worlds? These are questions that beckon exploration, inviting

us to unravel the complex interplay between technology,

aesthetics, and the human psyche in the context of video

games.

This thesis aspires to contribute to the ongoing dialogue

surrounding the evolution of video game graphics and animation

in PC games, shedding light on the multifaceted dynamics that

shape the landscape of interactive entertainment. As we

navigate through the chapters that follow, let us embark on a

quest to understand not only how far we have come but also

where the path of innovation may lead us in the ever-evolving

realm of video game visuals.

3
 CHAPTER 2

HISTORICAL DEVELOPMENT OF PC GAMES GRAPHICS

The historical development of PC games graphics is a

fascinating journey marked by significant technological

advancements. It all began with simple pixelated graphics and

has evolved into the stunning, realistic visuals we see today.

2.1 1970s-1980s: The Birth of Pixel Art

Early PC games, like text-based adventures, did not have

graphics as we know them today. However, with the advent of

personal computers, games like Pong and Space Invaders

introduced basic pixel art.

2.2 1980s-1990s: Rise of 2D Graphics

2D graphics became more popular in the 1980s because to titles

like Sonic the Hedgehog and Super Mario Bros. These titles

established the norm for side-scrolling adventures by using

sprites and simple animation techniques.

4
2.3 Early 1990s: Introduction of 3D Graphics

The early 1990s marked a shift towards 3D graphics with games

like Wolfenstein 3D and Doom. These games used simple 3D

environments and textures to create immersive experiences.

2.4 Mid-1990s: Rise of 3D Acceleration

The mid-1990s brought about the era of 3D acceleration with

the introduction of graphics cards like the 3dfx Voodoo. This

allowed for smoother rendering of 3D graphics and paved the

way for visually stunning games like Quake.

2.5 Late 1990s-2000s: Graphics Cards Evolution

NVIDIA and ATI/AMD emerged as the two main competitors in the

graphics card market as it continued to develop. Games that

pushed the limits of realism, such as Half-Life 2 and Doom 3,

included sophisticated lighting and shading effects.

2.6 Mid-2000s: Introduction of Shader Technology

Shader technology became prominent, allowing for more

realistic lighting, shadows, and special effects. Games like

Crysis became known for their demanding hardware requirements

due to their advanced graphics.

5
2.7 Late 2000s-2010s: High-Definition and

Physically-Based Rendering

The late 2000s saw a focus on high-definition graphics and

physically-based rendering. Games like The Witcher 3: Wild

Hunt and Battlefield series showcased realistic environments

and character models.

2.8 2010s-Present: Ray Tracing and 4K Gaming

The recent years have witnessed the adoption of ray tracing

technology, providing even more realistic lighting and

reflections. 4K gaming has become mainstream, offering

incredibly detailed visuals in games like Cyberpunk 2077.

The future of PC game graphics is likely to involve further

advancements in ray tracing, artificial intelligence-driven

graphics, and possibly even more immersive technologies like

virtual reality.

6
 CHAPTER 3

ANIMATION IN PC GAMES

Animation in PC games brings virtual worlds to life, enhancing

gameplay with fluid movements and realistic actions. From

character gestures to environmental dynamics, sophisticated

animation techniques captivate players, immersing them in

immersive and visually stunning gaming experiences. It is a

key element that elevates the overall quality and enjoyment of

modern PC games.

3.1 The evolution of animation techniques in PC games

The evolution of animation in PC games is a fascinating

journey. In the early days, animations were often simple

sprites that moved across the screen in a somewhat choppy

fashion. As technology progressed, developers started

incorporating more sophisticated techniques to enhance the

realism and fluidity of in-game animations.

3.1.1 Sprite-based Animation (1980s-1990s):

In the early days of PC gaming, animations were primarily

sprite-based. Characters and objects were 2D images that

7
were moved around the screen to create the illusion of

motion. This method was limited in terms of realism and

expressiveness.

3.1.2 3D Modelling and Skeletal Animation (Late 1990s):

With the advent of 3D graphics cards, developers began

transitioning from 2D sprites to 3D models. Skeletal

animation became a popular technique, where a character's

skeleton (a set of interconnected bones) was used to

dictate movement. This allowed for more realistic and

dynamic animations.

3.1.3 Motion Capture (Early 2000s):

To further enhance realism, motion capture technology was

introduced. This involved recording the movements of real

actors and mapping them onto 3D character models. Games

like Max Payne and Prince of Persia: The Sands of Time

were among the early adopters of motion capture for fluid

and lifelike animations.

3.1.4 Procedural Animation (Mid-2000s onwards):

Procedural animation techniques became more prominent,

allowing for dynamic and adaptive movements. Instead of

8
relying solely on predefined animations, developers could

use algorithms to generate animations on the fly,

responding to in-game events and environmental changes.

3.1.5 Physics-based Animation (Late 2000s onwards):

Physics engines became integral to game development,

influencing not only object interactions but also

character animations. Ragdoll physics, for example,

allowed characters to react more realistically to

external forces, resulting in more natural movements and

death animations.

3.1.6 Facial Animation and Emotion Capture (2010s):

Advancements in facial animation technology, such as

performance capture, enabled more nuanced expressions and

emotions in characters. This contributed to the overall

immersive experience in narrative-driven games.

3.1.7 Real-time Ray Tracing and AI (Late 2010s onwards):

The introduction of real-time ray tracing and artificial

intelligence in graphics technology allowed for more

realistic lighting, shadows, and animations. AI-driven

techniques, such as deep learning, started being used to

9
 enhance character animations and make them more

responsive to player inputs.

3.2 Influence of cinematic and storytelling trends on

game animation

The influence of cinematic and storytelling trends on game

animation is significant and has evolved over the years. As

technology has advanced and storytelling in various media has

become more sophisticated, game developers have sought to

incorporate cinematic and narrative elements into their games

to create more immersive and engaging experiences. Here are

some key ways in which cinematic and storytelling trends have

influenced game animation.

3.2.1 Realism and Detail:

Cinematic trends often emphasize realistic graphics and

attention to detail. Game developers have followed suit

by incorporating advanced animation techniques, such as

motion capture, to create more lifelike character

movements and facial expressions.

10
3.2.2 Narrative-driven Gameplay:

The rise of narrative-driven games has led to a greater

focus on character development and storytelling. This has

influenced game animation by requiring more nuanced and

emotionally expressive character animations to convey

complex narratives.

3.2.3 Cinematic Cutscenes:

Games increasingly use cinematic cutscenes to advance the

plot and provide a more film-like experience. These

sequences often involve high-quality animations and

camera work to create a more immersive storytelling

experience.

3.2.4 Interactive Storytelling:

Some games incorporate interactive storytelling elements,

where player choices affect the narrative outcome. This

has led to the development of branching animations and

dynamic sequences that adapt to player decisions.

3.2.5 Emphasis on Cinematography:

Cinematic techniques, such as framing, camera angles, and

lighting, are being adopted in game animation to enhance

11
the visual storytelling. This creates more engaging and

visually stunning gameplay experiences.

3.2.6 Integration of Storytelling Tools:

Game engines and animation tools have evolved to include

features that support storytelling. Developers can now

use these tools to create more complex and dynamic

animations that serve the narrative.

3.2.7 Cross-media Collaboration:

With the increasing convergence of the film and gaming

industries, collaborations between filmmakers and game

developers have become more common. This has led to the

exchange of techniques and ideas, influencing animation

styles in both mediums.

3.2.8 Character-driven Experiences:

Cinematic trends often focus on character-driven

narratives, and this has influenced game animation by

placing a greater emphasis on developing memorable and

relatable characters with distinct animations that

contribute to their personalities.

12
 3.2.9 Use of Cinematic Techniques in Gameplay:

Game animations now often incorporate cinematic

techniques not only in cutscenes but also in gameplay.

This includes dynamic camera movements, scripted events,

and seamless transitions between gameplay and story

sequences.

3.2.10 High Production Values:

The demand for higher production values in games,

influenced by cinematic standards, has led to the use of

advanced animation technologies, sophisticated rigs, and

talented animators to create animations that rival those

seen in movies.

In summary, cinematic and storytelling trends have

significantly influenced game animation by pushing for greater

realism, emotional expressiveness, and narrative depth. As

games continue to evolve as a storytelling medium, the

collaboration between the film and gaming industries is likely

to lead to even more innovative and immersive animation

experiences.

13
3.3 Importance of character animation

Character animation plays a crucial role in enhancing the

overall gaming experience, contributing to the realism,

engagement, and emotional connection between players and the

virtual world.

3.3.1 Enhancing Realism and Immersion:

Realistic character animation helps to create a more

immersive gaming experience by making virtual characters

move and behave in a way that mirrors real-life actions.

This enhances the overall sense of realism in the game

world.

3.3.2 Emotional Engagement:

Expressive character animations contribute to emotional

engagement by conveying a character's feelings and

reactions. This can deepen the player's connection to the

story and characters.

14
 3.3.3 Communication and Feedback:

Character animations serve as a form of communication

between the game and the player. They provide feedback on

actions, reactions, and the state of the game.

3.3.4 Narrative Support:

Character animations contribute to storytelling by

helping to convey the narrative through the movements,

gestures, and interactions of virtual characters.

3.3.5 Gameplay Clarity:

Well-crafted character animations contribute to gameplay

clarity by making it easier for players to understand the

actions and intentions of characters.

In summary, character animation in video games is essential

for creating a realistic, emotionally engaging, and immersive

gaming experience. These aspects are crucial for attracting

and retaining players in the ever-evolving world of video game

design.

15
3.4 Motion capture technology and its impact on

realism

Motion capture technology has had a significant impact on

realism in video games by allowing developers to create more

lifelike and natural animations for characters. Motion

capture, often abbreviated as mocap, involves recording the

movements of real people and using that data to animate

digital characters in games.

3.4.1 Realistic Character Movements:

Mocap enables developers to capture the subtle nuances of

human movement, such as facial expressions, body

language, and gestures. This results in characters that

move and behave more realistically in the game world.

3.4.2 Emotional Expression:

Facial motion capture allows for the realistic portrayal

of emotions. This enhances the emotional depth of

characters in video games, making the storytelling more

compelling and relatable to players.

16
3.4.3 Authentic Combat Animations:

In games that involve combat or physical activities,

motion capture helps create authentic and fluid

animations. This contributes to a more immersive gaming

experience as characters react realistically to their

surroundings and opponents.

3.4.4 Improved Lip Syncing:

Mocap can be used to synchronize in-game character lip

movements with voice acting, resulting in more accurate

and convincing lip syncing. This helps bridge the gap

between the character's spoken dialogue and their on-

screen appearance.

3.4.5 Increased Development Efficiency:

Motion capture technology can streamline the animation

creation process, saving time and resources for

developers. Instead of manually animating every movement,

developers can record real actors performing the actions,

which can then be translated into the digital realm.

3.4.6 Customization and Personalization:

Developers can capture the movements of specific actors

or performers to create unique characters with

17
 distinctive traits. This allows for a level of

personalization and customization that adds to the

diversity and richness of characters in video games.

3.4.7 Enhanced Immersion:

Realistic character animations contribute to a higher

level of immersion for players. When characters move and

react in ways that closely resemble human behaviour,

players are more likely to feel connected to the game

world.

3.4.8 Accessibility and Inclusivity:

Motion capture technology can be used to capture a wide

range of movements, catering to characters of different

ages, genders, and physical abilities. This helps in

creating more diverse and inclusive representations in

video games.

While motion capture technology has greatly improved realism

in video games, it is important to note that other factors,

such as graphics, physics, and game mechanics, also play

crucial roles in creating a truly immersive gaming experience.

Additionally, advancements in motion capture technology

18
continue to push the boundaries of what is possible, promising

even more realistic and nuanced character animations in the

future.

19
 CHAPTER 4

THE IMPACT ON GAMERS

The evolution of graphics and animation in video games has had

a profound impact on gamers in several ways.

4.1 Immersive Experience:

Visual Realism: Improved graphics and animation contribute to

a more realistic and immersive gaming experience. High-quality

visuals can transport players to fantastical worlds or

simulate real-world environments with stunning detail,

enhancing the overall enjoyment of the game.

4.2 Emotional Engagement:

Storytelling: Advanced graphics and animation allow for more

sophisticated storytelling. Realistic character expressions

and lifelike animations can evoke stronger emotions from

players, making them feel more connected to the characters and

the narrative.

20
4.3 Gameplay Dynamics:

Mechanical Advancements: Graphics advancements often coincide

with improvements in processing power, enabling more complex

and dynamic gameplay. This includes larger and more detailed

game worlds, intricate physics engines, and advanced

artificial intelligence for non-player characters.

4.4 Innovation and Creativity:

Artistic Expression: Developers can use improved graphics to

create unique and visually stunning art styles, pushing the

boundaries of artistic expression in gaming. This allows for a

diverse range of gaming experiences that cater to different

tastes and preferences.

4.5 Social and Competitive Aspects:

Online Gaming: Enhanced graphics have contributed to the rise

of online multiplayer gaming. The visual appeal of games

attracts a larger player base, and the competitive nature of

online gaming is often fuelled by the desire to experience the

latest and greatest graphics and animations.

21
4.6 Technological Advancements:

Hardware Development: The demand for more realistic graphics

has driven advancements in gaming hardware. This includes more

powerful graphics cards, faster processors, and increased

memory capacity, pushing the entire technology industry

forward.

4.7 Expectation and Anticipation:

High Standards: As gamers experience increasingly realistic

graphics, their expectations for future games also rise.

Developers are under constant pressure to deliver cutting-edge

visuals, leading to a cycle of innovation and improvement.

4.8 Marketing and Sales:

Showcasing Capabilities: Game developers often use impressive

graphics and animations to market their products. Trailers and

promotional material that highlight stunning visuals can

generate significant interest and drive sales.

4.9 Accessibility and Inclusivity:

Broadening Audience: Realistic graphics can make games more

accessible to a wider audience, attracting individuals who may

22
not have been traditional gamers. The appeal of visually

striking games can transcend age groups and demographics.

4.10 Longevity of Games:

Games with exceptional graphics and animation tend to age

better. Players are more likely to revisit or remember games

that set new standards for visual fidelity, contributing to

the long-term success of certain titles.

In summary, the evolution of graphics and animation in video

games has transformed the gaming experience by offering

heightened realism, emotional engagement, and innovative

gameplay dynamics. These advancements continue to shape the

industry, influencing player expectations and driving the

ongoing development of gaming technology.

23
 CHAPTER 5

CASE STUDY: THE SIMS GAMES

The Sims is a popular life simulation video game series that

was developed by Maxis and was published by Electronic Arts.

The main goal of the game is simple to keep the sims or the

characters pleased by taking care of their needs. The Sims ™ as

the name suggests is a simulation game thus. Players can

customize everything from the character to the house. The game

might look boring at first sight but the players can create

their own story through their characters.

5.1 The Sims (2000)

Fig. 1.

The original Sims game had a more simplistic, isometric view

with 2D sprites representing characters. While the graphics

24
were not cutting-edge for its time, the game's charm and

innovative gameplay made it a hit. The game had very limited

animation and the character animation was very rigid compared

to now. The game became a cultural phenomenon attracting a

diverse player base.

5.2 The Sims 2 (2004)

Fig. 2.

The Sims 2 marked a significant improvement in graphics. The

game transitioned to a 3D environment, allowing players to

rotate the camera and zoom in on their Sims. Character models

became more detailed, and the overall visual experience was a

substantial upgrade from the first instalment.

25
5.3 The Sims 3 (2009)

Fig. 3.

The third instalment in the series brought further

improvements. The game featured an open-world concept,

allowing seamless exploration of neighbourhoods without

loading screens. The character models and animations became

more realistic, and the game took advantage of advancements in

hardware capabilities.

5.4 The Sims 4(2014)

26
 Fig. 4.

The Sims 4 continued the trend of graphical enhancements. The

art style became more stylized, and the game introduced a more

streamlined interface. Character customization options were

expanded, and the emotions system allowed for more expressive

animations and interactions. The Sims 4 also optimized

performance, making it accessible to a wider range of computer

configurations.

5.5 DLCs and Expansion Packs

Throughout the series, various expansion packs and

downloadable content (DLC) have introduced additional graphics

and animations. These expansions often include new

environments, character animations, and assets that contribute

to the overall visual richness of the game.

5.6 Mods and Community Contributions

The Sims community has played a significant role in enhancing

graphics and animations. Modders create custom content,

including high-resolution textures, improved character models,

and animation overrides that add more nuance and realism to

the Sims' movements

27
 SURVEY REPORT

This part of the thesis deals with how much impact the

graphics and the animation of a PC video game has on a gamer.

This report is a summary of all the answers I got from 60

different people and have drawn conclusion from it. The survey

includes responses from both people who play games and people

who do not.

1. How long have you been playing video games on PC?

People
70

60

50

40

30

20

10

0
0 5 10 15 20 25 30

Fig. 5.

28
Conclusion: Almost all the people that have been surveyed

are people who have been playing games for quite some time.

There are people who do not play at all as well. The survey

is legit that it has input from people who have an idea

about video games.

2. How important are high-quality graphics in a video game

to you on a scale of 1 to 10, with 1 being not important

at all and 10 being extremely important?

20
18
16
14
12
10
8
6
4
2
0
1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10

Fig. 6.

Conclusion: Most of the players feel that high quality

graphics is very important to them when playing a video

game. But still there a few players who feel that

graphics are not that important to enjoy a game

29
3. Have you ever chosen to play a specific game because of

its graphics and visual aesthetics? If yes, please

mention the game.

Conclusion: 48 people said yes to this question out of

which 10 people mentioned “Genshin Impact”. Other

frequently mentioned games were “Red Dead Redemption 2”

and “Dragon Raja”. From this conclusion can be drawn that

almost al gamers are attracted to games that have either

amazing graphics or visual aesthetics.

4. Do you believe that realistic graphics and animations

enhance your immersion in a video game?

yes no

Fig. 7.

Conclusion:85.2% people agreed that realistic graphics ad

animation enhances a person’s immersion in a video game

while 14.8% disagreed.

30
5. In your opinion, do high-quality graphics and animations

improve the overall gameplay experience?

yes no

Fig. 8.

Conclusion: 83.6% said yes while 16.4% said no. Thus,

conclusion can be drawn that as long as the game portrays

that it has good quality graphics, players are willing to

try that game out.

6. Do you prefer games with a realistic art style, or do you

prefer games with a unique and stylized art style? Why?

Conclusion: Almost 50% of people said they prefer stylized

art style over realistic. Around 25% said they prefer

realistic and the rest said they prefer either as long as

the story telling is good. The people who preferred

31
 stylized art style said realistic makes it too similar to

reality and that makes them loose interest while the ones

who prefer realistic art style said it makes it easier to

relate to their own life and can pretend to the

protagonist.

7. Please arrange the following in the order of importance

to you when you are planning to try out a game (story,

art style, graphics, animation, popularity):

35

30

25

20

15

10

0
Story Art Style Graphics Animation Popularity

1 2 3 4 5

Fig. 9.

Conclusion: This chart shows when people were asked to

rank story, art style, graphics, animation, and

popularity, how they ranked the categories in 1, 2, 3, 4

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and 5 position. The chart clearly shows that majority of

the people placed story in first place. The second place

is graphics. The third place is art style even though it

ties up with graphics and animation. Fourth place is

animation and lastly the popularity of the game.

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 CONCLUSION

In conclusion, the evolution of video game graphics and

animation in PC games has been a remarkable journey that has

not only pushed the boundaries of technology but has also

significantly impacted gamers and the gaming industry as a

whole. From the pixelated graphics of early games to the

photorealistic visuals of contemporary titles, the progress

has been nothing short of astonishing.

The constant quest for better graphics and animation has not

only enhanced the immersive experience for gamers but has also

driven technological advancements in hardware and software

development. This evolution has created a visual spectacle

that captivates players and enables game developers to tell

more compelling and realistic stories. The attention to detail

in modern games has reached a point where virtual worlds

closely mirror reality, blurring the line between the digital

and physical realms.

The impact on gamers is profound, as the heightened visual

fidelity and animation quality contribute to a more engaging

and emotionally resonating gaming experience. Gamers today

have come to expect stunning visuals and seamless animations,

pushing developers to continually raise the bar. This

evolution has not only influenced the way games are designed

34
but has also influenced the expectations of the gaming

community, fostering a demand for innovation and excellence.

Furthermore, the evolution of graphics and animation has

expanded the gaming demographic, attracting a wider audience

that may not have been interested in gaming before. The

accessibility and appeal of visually striking games have

turned gaming into a mainstream form of entertainment,

reaching people of all ages and backgrounds.

In essence, the evolution of video game graphics and animation

in PC games has transformed the gaming landscape, creating an

immersive and visually stunning medium that continues to

captivate audiences worldwide. As technology advances, the

journey is likely to persist, with gamers eagerly anticipating

the next breakthrough that will redefine the standards of

visual excellence in the world of PC gaming.

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 BIBLIOGRAPHY

1. Arsenault, D., Coté, P. M., Larochelle, A., & Lebel, S.

(2013). Graphical technologies, innovation and aesthetics

in the video game industry: A case study of the shift

from 2D to 3D graphics in the 1990s. G| A| M| E Games as

Art, Media, Entertainment, 1(2).

2. Wolf, M. J. P. (2007, November 30). The Video Game

Explosion. Bloomsbury Publishing USA.

3. W. B. (2021, July 27). The entire story of The Sims //

The full timeline of The Sims. YouTube.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fjE6-RxQlh4

4. Ali, N. M., Abdullah, S. Z., Salim, J., & Lee, H. (2013).

Exploring user experience in game interface: a case study

of The Sims 3. The Computer Games Journal, 2, 6-18.

5. Flanagan, M. (2003). SIMple & personal: domestic space &

The Sims. Melbourne DAC 2003.

6. Eberly, D. H. (2003). 3D Game Animation for Dummies. John

Wiley & Sons.

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7. Canny, J., & Lien, J. (2011). Real-time Rendering for

Video Game Development. CRC Press.

8. Cooper, J. (2021). Game anim: video game animation

explained. Crc Press.

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 BIOGRAPHY OF THE AUTHOR

Satarupa is a 21-year-old animator, born in Kolkata. She did

her schooling from Mahadevi Birla Shishu Vihar, Kolkata. She

is currenting completing her final year at St. Xavier’s

College (Autonomous) Kolkata, in the Department of Multimedia

and Animation. Satarupa also takes interest in making

illustrations and video games. She is a candidate for M.Sc.

degree in multimedia from St. Xavier’s College (Autonomous),

Kolkata, in 2024.

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