Travis Kelly

Video Games: Interactive Storytelling

Definition: Video games are a unique form of literary expression because they allow the audience (player) to take a direct hand in the story as it unfolds.  However, as video games have increased in complexity and popularity, they have begun to resemble other major forms of literature such as movies and novels.  The term “interactive fiction” is used to emphasize the literary aspects of the video game experience.

Video Examples:

·        Ms. Pacman (Midway 1981)

-The story is trivial; No coherent plot.

·        Bad Dudes (Data East 1989)

      -There is a plot which spans the entire game.  However, the story is simplistic and unimportant.

·        Thief 2: The Metal Age (Looking Glass Studios 2000)

      -The story is intricate and complete.  It is an integral part of the game, and spans multiple titles.

Subject Genre: Some of the more common ones include action, adventure, puzzle, fighting, sports, simulation, strategy, and role-playing.

Representational Genre: Typically dialogue or narrator + dialogue, although pure narration is not unheard of.

Narrative Genre: There are likely video game tragedies, comedies, romances, and satires.  However, most games (popular ones, anyway) have romantic plots similar to action or fantasy movies.

Characteristics:  In a typical action or adventure game, the player is charged with overcoming an enemy or attaining some kind of item or goal.  In this regard, it is a romance.  However, elements of tragedy, comedy, and satire are not uncommon, particularly in role-playing games.  Bittersweet endings are not uncommon.

Video Games seem to exemplify an increasing use of spectacle in entertainment.  Although the plot may give direction to the action perpetrated by the player, the game play itself is usually fueled by action.  This has lead to a ratings system for video games similar to the one used for movies.

Related Link - http://www.jesperjuul.dk/thesis/1-introduction.html

-Interactive fiction is “A clash between game and narrative”

Discussion Questions:

1.  Recently, movies containing large quantities of spectacle, particularly in the form of CGI, have been described as being similar to video games.  Why might this be considered a negative judgment?

2.  Do you think the interactive aspects of video games might allow them to replace movies/books?  Why or why not?