Museum of Modern Art

Lore & Background

MoMA's decision to induct Journey into its halls didn't just honor one game; it validated the radical idea that a silent, wordless pilgrimage through the desert could be as profound a cultural artifact as any canvas or bronze. The museum specifically cited Journey's minimalist visual language, its dynamically shifting score by Austin Wintory, and its anonymous, wordless multiplayer system as indivisible elements of a unified artistic vision. This acquisition set a precedent that the interactive, player-driven nature of a game doesn't diminish its status as high art — it defines it.

In Their Own Story

A visitor stands before a large display screen in a quiet, white-walled gallery, watching the robed traveler ascend the distant mountain peak under a vast, starry sky. The room's silence is broken only by the swelling strings of the soundtrack, which seem to breathe with the traveler's every step. Unlike the static paintings on the surrounding walls, this piece is alive: the traveler moves with fluid grace, leaving a trail of glowing light that slowly fades into the digital void. The observer can't help but imagine their own silent footsteps through the shifting sands, feeling the weight of a journey that needs no words.

Reader's Guide

Journey was developed by thatgamecompany and published by Sony Computer Entertainment, launching on PlayStation 3 in March 2012 before later arriving on PC and PlayStation 4. The development team deliberately stripped away dialogue, text, and complex narratives, focusing instead on emotional resonance through intuitive gameplay mechanics. This bold approach earned the game widespread critical acclaim and numerous awards for its design and music. In 2013, the Museum of Modern Art selected Journey for its permanent collection, specifically citing it as a landmark example of how video games can function as art. The acquisition made headlines worldwide, cementing Journey's legacy as a milestone in gaming history.

Did You Know?

• Journey was not the first video game added to MoMA's permanent collection; the museum had already acquired 14 games in 2012, including Pac-Man and Tetris, before adding Journey in 2013.
• The game features a unique multiplayer system where players can meet another traveler without knowing their name or identity.
• Composer Austin Wintory created a dynamic score that changes based on player actions and altitude within the game world.