An online petition calls for a new Interactive Entertainment category to be added to the world-famous Hollywood Walk of Fame to honor video game heroes. The category would supplement the current Walk of Fame categories for Film, Television, Recording, Stage and Radio.

Fans can join the cause at www.petitionspot.com/petitions/walkoffame, which asks the Hollywood Chamber of Commerce to recognize that interactive entertainment has become as much a part of the landscape as films and television. For more than 25 years, video games have entertained millions of people around the world, and a new category could honor legendary characters like Mario, Donkey Kong and Zelda.

Video games are the entertainment medium of the 21st century. According to the Entertainment Software Association, half of all Americans 6 and older play video games, and the average game player is 29 years old. Additionally, 39 percent of players are women. Unlike other diversions, interactive video games draw players in and make them a part of the experience by letting them control the action. Players can spend dozens of hours conquering and replaying their favorite games as they form emotional attachments to their characters. No other entertainment medium forms such a close connection with its audience.

The petition will remain online through March, after which it will be delivered to the Hollywood Chamber of Commerce for consideration.