“Games used to be blamed for crime, but now they’re finally recognized as culture,” Dragon Quest creator Yuji Horii celebrates award from Japanese government 

Yuji Horii, creator of the Dragon Quest series, reported on December 17 that he has received the “Commissioner for Cultural Affairs Award.” The Japanese government’s Agency for Cultural Affairs awards this honor to individuals who have made distinguished accomplishments in artistic and cultural activities. 

On his personal X account, Horii posted photographs of the award and ceremony, along with the following comment: 

I was honored to receive an award from the Commissioner of the Agency for Cultural Affairs. Looking back to about 40 years ago, video games were perceived as a cause of crime and were frowned upon by society, but after all this time they have come to be recognized as culture by the country. I am deeply moved. Please continue to support the game industry.