DIGITAL GAMES AND RELATIONAL AESTHETICS: GAMES AS AN ART FORM FROM THE PERSPECTIVE OF NICOLAS BOURRIAUD

This article analyses the function of digital games as an art form within the framework of Nicolas Bourriaud's theory of relational aesthetics. It explores how digital games transform social interactions in the context of contemporary art and create relational art through participant-oriented experiences. Using conceptual analysis as a method, the theoretical relationship between art approaches and digital games is discussed. The hypothesis is that digital games are art forms that create social connections in line with Bourriaud's theory. The findings reveal that digital games undertake the social bonding function of art by creating virtual communities and social dynamics. As a result, it is concluded that digital games redefine art as a co-creative process with participants, create micro-communities through anonymous interactions, and make a significant contribution to the social role of art. This study offers new perspectives on the artistic value of digital games. The results of this study emphasize the artistic value of digital games within the framework of relational aesthetics and their potential to create social bonds and offer new perspectives for future research.