Every gamer knows that a great game is more than just its mechanics-it’s the world, the characters, the very icons you interact with. These elements are brought to life through incredible artistry, and each year, the Academy of Interactive Arts & Sciences (AIAS), iam8bit, and fortyseven communications honor this talent with the Game Maker’s Sketchbook. 
This collection showcases some of the most awe-inspiring game art from the previous year, highlighting the creativity that drives the gaming industry.
According to Meggan Scavio, President of the Academy of Interactive Arts & Sciences, “The artistic skill and creativity on display in this year’s Game Maker’s Sketchbook entries were truly inspiring. We’re deeply grateful to our jurors for their time and thoughtful evaluation of such an outstanding body of work. Congratulations to all of this year’s finalists! We’re honored to present their artwork both online and in person at this year’s Summer Game Fest Play Days.”
The images selected for this year’s collection are chosen by a jury panel composed of experts from the worlds of game design, animation, movies, and fine art. It’s a diverse group that ensures the art presented is not only breathtaking but also reflective of the industry’s innovation and vision.
One notable highlight is the resurgence of Riven, a game that has recently earned renewed attention, much to the joy of its long-time fans. The Riven remake was a standout, earning accolades for its faithful yet stunningly fresh take on the classic. It’s no surprise that it’s remained a favorite after nearly 30 years, proving that great games never truly fade away.
If you’re a fan of these incredible pieces, you can purchase prints of your favorites until July 7 from the iam8bit store. The best part? All proceeds will be donated to the AIAS Foundation, supporting the next generation of game artists and creators.