MTV2 has embraced videogame programming with its "Video Mods" series. By mixing some of today's most popular video games and characters with the latest music videos and artists, each episode of Video Mods represents a breakthrough in entertainment by providing an entirely new experience for music and video game fans alike. The latest episode features Unwritten Law's "Save Me" with characters from X-Men Legends: Rise Of The Apocalypse, Ciara's "1,2 Step" overhauled with Dance Dance Revolution, Hoobastank's "The Reason," featured with Dungeon Lords, and Jimmy Eat World's "Pain," reconstructed with Juiced.
IBC digital is the company that takes the assets from game developers and publishers and creates the video mods for MTV2. Ben Porcari, president of IBC Digital, took some time to talk about the marriage of music, games and Machinima.

Can you talk about Machinima and how you've seen it evolve as an art form over the years?

Machinima evolved as people began to realize that the tools used in game creation could be adapted to tell a story. Suddenly ordinary people had the ability to make a film digitally, with actors, sets and their own stories. The first attempts were very primitive as the tools were limited, but its unique content captured the imaginations of thousands of fans. I believe that there is a hunger out there for content that pushes the envelope of traditional media. I have seen Machinima take many different forms in the last few years from fine art, satire, drama, and even a talk show! In a way Machinima serves to democratize the film making process giving any artist rich or poor, a way to bring their vision to life. In the end Machinima is less about state-of-the-art special effects and more about the concepts conveyed within. The possibilities are limitless and with the tools getting more advanced every day Machinima is getting much more sophisticated.

Will these series continue with other MTV 2 Video Mods or will there be new characters and series?

We always have our eyes open to see what can make the show better for the audience, the series could continue as well as other new concepts.

What are your thoughts on the blending of music videos and videogame characters?

It's a natural. You just have to look at the trend of videogame soundtracks to see how integral the two are. In a way both music & videogames are barometers of today's culture. They are both a product of the times. For an increasing number of people, music and videogames are the main sources for entertainment. Video Mods allows gaming and music fans alike to see new interpretations of some great music starring characters that have become household names. It's the best of both worlds. The show has a lot of unique match-ups and unforgettable scenes (like Yoda playing the drums on Franz Ferdinand's "Take Me Out").

How do you see Machinima expanding moving forward?

As more artists get involved with the medium and create their unique films, the audience will grow. The tools are getting increasingly sophisticated so I imagine that Machinima might end up being an entry point for some of tomorrows brightest film makers.

How did you guys get involved with Machinima and what made you bring it to MTV2'sVideo Mods?

In a way what we are doing in Video Mods is very similar to Machinima. We are using video game assets to create animated films. Since we are a larger production facility, we have the staff and infrastructure to take it to the next level in production quality. It is very similar at its core. Because of this, Machinima is a very organic match to the show & fits right in nicely.

Do you think that Hollywood will look to Machinima artists one day as they currently look to music video directors?

I think so. What Hollywood is looking for is a unique vision. Someone that can inspire the masses. Machinima is a viable platform to create films and if that content is truly visionary Hollywood will come knocking sooner than later.

What systems do you own?

Everything.... PS2, XBOX, PSP, and PC's...

What games do you guys play?

It's a mixed bag, I tend to like the RPG's like Morrowind or Ultima in the old days. I also love all of the Metal Gear titles, Hideo Kojima has really made some incredible games. I am also a big fan of the Onimusha games.

What are you looking forward to playing this fall?

At the top of my list is Oblivion, that looks amazing. Quake and Gears of War look good as well. I am hoping for more PSP games, I spend a LOT of time in airports!