The Penny Arcade guys! Writer Jerry Holkins, artist Mike Krahulik and business guru Robert Khoo have been given the award for creating a gamer-friendly empire that epitomized the positive aspects of “gamer culture.” They’ve used their powers only for good, creating a charity (Child’s Play) and the Penny Arcade Expo, which brings gamers together to celebrate the culture of gaming. They may have gotten a slow start in 1998, but now Penny Arcade is almost a household name (well, in gamer households, anyway).

“The Penny Arcade crew might be some of the most flippant, adorable game fans out there,” said Meggan Scavio, Event Director for GDC. “So obviously, we’re delighted to recognize their efforts in providing a genuine voice and event for gamers, and working with both fans and developers in the Child’s Play Charity to raise millions of dollars for a great cause.”

The award will be presented during the Game Developers Choice Awards on March 11 in San Francisco, CA.