"The PGA's decision to honor a game designer is a big moment for game designers such as myself, and those who would like to follow in our footsteps. The PGA is signaling that games are an integral part of the entertainment industry, and an art form worthy of recognition," said Wright in a statement. "For that reason, I am incredibly honored to be the first game designer to receive the Vanguard award."

Wright is currently designing the ambitious universe and evolution simulator Spore, being developed at his personal Emeryville, California studio.