Abstract
Story/narrative in video games is a significant subject of discussion in academic
environment. Gameplay (the way of experiencing a video game) confronts totally if
compared with traditional storytelling. Increasing number of game researchers decided
not to dwell on directly comparing gameplay and storytelling. Instead of that, they
conveyed, studies should focus on the unique nature of gameplay. It can be said that
this manner brought new matters of debate to game studies. Therefore, same manner
should provide new perspectives to visual design area as well. Because visual
experience is an important part of gameplay.
In the first chapter, story concept as a part of communication and the storytelling culture
were researched. Creating and listening to stories is a need for every human being.
But storytelling constantly evolves. Digital technology spread storytelling to all
segments of society. Digital worlds are defined as the intersection point of storytelling,
technology and communication. Transmedia storytelling has completely changed
storytelling culture.
Second chapter is about understanding video games as a unique genre. Video games
are defined by their unique characteristics. Video games are digital worlds built by rules.
Players interact with rules and thus the gameplay occurs. According to theorists, the
unique narrative in video games is the process of understanding the game’s world itself.
In this way, unique narrative theories were conveyed. The role of visual experience in
unique narrative theories is discussed.
iv
In the third chapter, the role of narrative and visual design in video game level design
theory examined. Level design theories are built around creating a fun gameplay
design. But narrative and visual design are not considered as parts of the fun gameplay.
However, research shows that fun gameplay design theories have significant
similarities with unique narrative principles in video games. Case studies show that
visual design in the context of narrative is essential for unique narrative experience.
Fourth chapter is dedicated to thesis project. Unlike a traditional video game concept
design, a concept design closer to gameplay has been made. A story has been created
to begin with. Elements such as characters, places and mechanics were determined
according to the unique narrative titles. Drawings were made to explore the potential of
visual design in the context of the narrative.
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