Arcadism 2023: A Brief Exploration of the Future of Fighting Game Culture
A journey into the future...
Arcadism, an ever-evolving media theory and approach to information, draws its inspiration from fighting games and the arcades that birthed them. As we venture into 2023, we strive to push the boundaries of fighting game culture, highlighting its intersections with lifestyle and broader media. In anticipation of EVO 2023, we have identified six key themes that will guide our community's growth and development this year. This essay will delve into each theme, providing a brief analysis of their potential impact on the future of Arcadism and global fighting game culture.
Health and Meditation:
The first theme, health and meditation, focuses on balancing holistic well-being with gaming. Research suggests that excessive gaming can lead to various physical health problems—To counteract these risks, the Arcadism community must prioritize self-care and explore gaming as a form of meditation. By incorporating mindfulness techniques and ergonomics into our gaming experiences, we can optimize our health and foster a more conscious connection with the virtual world.
Conscious Play:
The second theme, conscious play, emphasizes the importance of mindful gaming. Engaging with games on a deeper level requires a heightened awareness of not only our actions but also the decisions made by game designers and developers. By understanding the intention behind game mechanics, narratives, and character development, we can derive greater meaning and satisfaction from our gaming experiences. We must also critically evaluate the social and cultural implications of the content we consume.
Motion and Integration:
Our third theme, motion and integration, seeks to transform fighting game and arcade culture into a living, dynamic entity that engages with other industries and methodologies. This interdisciplinary approach can lead to groundbreaking innovations, such as the incorporation of new technologies, and the fusion of traditional art forms with digital media. Furthermore, collaborations between the gaming industry, academia, and the arts can foster new avenues for research and creative expression, elevating the cultural significance of Arcadism.
Communication and Value:
The fourth theme, communication and value, emphasizes the need for effective communication within our communities and with emerging communities. By forging connections and sharing knowledge with other gaming subcultures, we can integrate with the broader network that supports fighting games and arcade culture. We should also seek to engage with the wider public, showcasing the cultural, social, and educational value of Arcadism. This outreach can involve hosting events, developing educational resources, and partnering with community organizations to expand our sphere of influence.
Evolution and Adaptation:
Our fifth theme, evolution and adaptation, recognizes the importance of continuous growth and innovation in the rapidly changing landscape of gaming and media. To remain relevant, the Arcadism community must be open to new developments, incorporating our core themes of health, meditation, motion, and play into our ongoing evolution. This may involve embracing emerging technologies, such as AI-driven game design or adopting alternative modes of storytelling that challenge traditional gaming narratives.
Building upon the Legacy:
Our final theme, building upon the legacy, acknowledges the rich history of fighting games and the responsibility we have to honor and extend their legacy. We must appreciate the pioneers who shaped the genre, while simultaneously looking towards the future and exploring new possibilities. By preserving the essence of arcade culture and fighting games, while adapting to the changing times, we can ensure that future generations can experience the excitement, camaraderie, and creativity that define our shared passion.
As we enter a new era of Arcadism, we must adopt a positive and optimistic perspective, embracing the potential for growth and expansion within the fighting game community. With a focus on our six guiding themes, we can collaboratively shape the future of fighting game culture, creating a diverse and intellectually stimulating environment that transcends traditional boundaries.


By fostering interdisciplinary collaborations and engaging with other industries, we can uncover novel ways to enhance the gaming experience, pushing the limits of what is possible within the realm of Arcadism. This may involve exploring the intersection of gaming with fields such as psychology, sociology, and even neuroscience, to better understand the motivations, behaviors, and cognitive processes underlying our engagement with fighting games.
Moreover, we should also emphasize the importance of fostering a supportive and inclusive community. By actively combating discrimination, harassment, and negative stereotypes, we can create a welcoming space for gamers of all backgrounds to share in the joy and excitement of fighting games.
As we collectively work towards these goals, we will forge a bright and promising future for Arcadism, one that honors the nostalgia and energy of arcade culture and fighting games while embracing the ever-evolving landscape of the gaming world.
Through our collective efforts, we can make 2023 a landmark year for Arcadism, solidifying its place as a vibrant and vital aspect of our contemporary cultural fabric.