Een theoretische verkenning naar de narratieve logica achter hedendaagse computerspellen | Amsterdam University Press Journals Online
2004
Volume 39, Issue 4
  • ISSN: 1384-6930
  • E-ISSN: 1875-7286

Abstract

A theoretical investigation into the narrative logic of contemporary computer games

A theoretical investigation into the narrative logic of contemporary computer games

This paper explores the logics behind two primary ways in which computer games deal with stories. As evident in how these games are designed, one of these logics focuses on players as implied authors who guide heroes through challenging trials and tribulations. The other logic focuses on players as embodied participants who become the hero and experience adventures of their own. This paper argues that in order to understand the differences between these two distinctive logics, it is necessary to critically review the representational concept of narrative as developed once in structuralist narratology and to develop an additional presentational conceptualization, applicable to both marginal narrative practices of the past as well as mainstream practices of the present. Drawing on theories from game-, film- and theatre studies, the paper defines these two logics, presents their characteristics and shows how they steer the future design of game stories into two different directions.

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2011-12-01
2024-03-29
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