[azakai]

Adding a "click to start the experience" button changes the experience. In particular, some users might not see the button if it's subtle, and be unimpressed or think the site is broken. And if the button is not subtle that's bad too.

It's also annoying to have to do such a change to your art for a single browser.

Overall I think the artist's frustration is understandable, but I agree "destroyed" is perhaps too strong a word.

[mr_toad]

Do we really have to pander to people who can’t find a play button?

How do these people function at crosswalks or in elevators?

[spankalee]

Well, crosswalks shouldn't have buttons. Pedestrians shouldn't have the burden of pressing the button in time to cross on the current signal.

[tokyodude]

Some signals actually do look at the crosswalk buttons. If no one is waiting to cross they keep the lights green in the direction of the most traffic.

[sp332]

That probably works for crosswalks at intersections, but there are other crosswalks with lights. I found a really nice one that turns the lights yellow as soon as you push the button.