Top 10 Documentaries About Video Games

Description: This film delves into the competitive world of classic arcade games, focusing on the rivalry between Billy Mitchell and Steve Wiebe for the high score in Donkey Kong. It's a story of obsession, rivalry, and the quest for video game glory.

Fact: The film was nominated for a Grand Jury Prize at the Sundance Film Festival in

Description: This documentary follows the emotional journey of indie game developers as they strive to create and release their games. It captures the highs and lows of the indie scene, showcasing the passion and dedication behind games like "Super Meat Boy" and "FEZ."

Fact: The film was successfully funded through Kickstarter, one of the first documentaries to do so, raising over $90,

Description: A comprehensive look at the history and impact of video games, featuring interviews with industry legends like Hideo Kojima and Cliff Bleszinski. It explores how games have shaped culture and technology over the decades.

Fact: The movie was released in theaters, on VOD, and on YouTube simultaneously, making it one of the first films to use this distribution strategy.

Description: Explores the urban legend of Atari burying thousands of unsold "E.T. the Extra-Terrestrial" game cartridges in a New Mexico landfill, uncovering the truth behind one of gaming's biggest flops.

Fact: The documentary crew actually found and excavated the Atari cartridges, confirming the legend.

Description: This film recounts the famous chess match between world champion Garry Kasparov and IBM's Deep Blue supercomputer, exploring themes of man vs. machine and the future of AI in gaming.

Fact: Kasparov initially accused IBM of cheating, leading to a significant controversy in the chess and tech communities.

Description: This documentary explores the impact of video games on society, particularly focusing on the aftermath of the Columbine High School massacre and how games like "Doom" were blamed for influencing the shooters.

Fact: The film includes interviews with game developers, psychologists, and survivors of the Columbine tragedy.

Description: Chronicles the rise of Markus "Notch" Persson and his game Minecraft, which became a global phenomenon. The documentary covers the game's development, its cultural impact, and the personal journey of its creator.

Fact: The film was released just before Microsoft acquired Mojang for $

Description: This documentary examines the toxic culture within the gaming community, focusing on the harassment and discrimination faced by women in gaming. It's a poignant look at the need for inclusivity in the gaming world.

Fact: The film was inspired by the Gamergate controversy, highlighting the real-world impact of online harassment.

Description: Focuses on the intense world of professional esports, following teams as they compete in the 2014 League of Legends World Championship. It captures the dedication, pressure, and passion of esports athletes.

Fact: The documentary was produced by Riot Games, the creators of League of Legends.

Description: A PBS documentary that traces the history of video games from their arcade beginnings to the modern era, featuring interviews with key figures in the industry and gamers alike.

Fact: The film was part of the PBS series "Frontline," known for its in-depth investigative journalism.