Aesthetic choices in popular video games show what society values. They reflect and shape the norms we all live by.

1. Cultural Representation:

   • In 2021, about 41% of game developers said they added cultural elements to their games. This makes the games feel more real.
   • From 2015 to 2020, the number of diverse characters in games went up by 29%. This change matches the world’s push for better representation.

2. Visual Style and Themes:

   • Games like "The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild" (2017) focus on living in harmony with nature. This connects with people who care about the environment.
   • On the other hand, games like "Cyberpunk 2077" (2020) use dark and gloomy designs, showing worries about too much technology in our lives.

3. Impact of Player Demographics:

   • By 2022, around 50% of gamers were female. This has changed the way games look and what stories they tell, making them more appealing to everyone.

4. Market Trends:

   • Aesthetic trends in gaming link to bigger cultural issues. For instance, there was a 62% increase in games about mental health in 2021. This shows that people are talking more about these issues in society.

In conclusion, the looks and styles of games are important for sharing cultural ideas and even for critiquing society.