Thesis
Understanding metagaming mechanics in interactive storytelling
Master of Science (M.S.), Drexel University
May 2016
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.17918/etd-6864
Abstract
Metagaming, any action taken outside of a game world with the goal of aiding gameplay, has traditionally been discouraged within the genre of interactive story-telling because it breaks immersion. With the development of new forms of narrative games, there are more and more games that use metagaming-based mechanics within the design of the game. However, we currently do not understand the impact that these mechanics have on the player's narrative experience. This project involved the analysis of existing games that utilize a specific metagaming-based mechanic, rewind/redo, in order to develop a formal vocabulary. This vocabulary informed the design of three versions of an experimental game. This game, titled Rough Draft, was used in a formal research study that gathered empirical data through qualitative and quantitative results analysis as well as observations of gameplay practices. Significant findings include qualitative response trends that support our theoretical claims as well as results that provide additional insights into best design practices for interactive story games that utilize a rewind/redo mechanic.
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Details
- Title
- Understanding metagaming mechanics in interactive storytelling
- Creators
- Erica M. Kleinman - DU
- Contributors
- Jichen Zhu (Advisor) - Drexel University (1970-)
- Awarding Institution
- Drexel University
- Degree Awarded
- Master of Science (M.S.)
- Publisher
- Drexel University; Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
- Number of pages
- vii, 68 pages
- Resource Type
- Thesis
- Language
- English
- Academic Unit
- Digital Media; Drexel University; Antoinette Westphal College of Media Arts and Design
- Other Identifier
- 6864; 991014632532304721