What is narrative?

The study of games and narrative has accumulated a wealth of research, but first, we need to answer a fundamental question: What is narrative?

“Narrative” originates from the Latin word “narrate,” which means “to tell, explain,” emphasizing the sharing of knowledge and experience with others. In English, “Narrative” refers both to the process of narration and the content itself, indicating that narrative is concerned with both “how the story is told” and “what is being told.”

However, many people limit narrative to “story,” overlooking the importance of “how it is told.” For example, the plot of “rescuing the princess” may be presented in novels through detailed prose, in films using camera language, and in games through player interaction. This difference in approach is precisely what gives game narrative its unique value.

Narratology is the study of narrative phenomena and their patterns, focusing on the elements of narrative and their interactions. A classical definition posits that narrative is the symbolic representation of a series of events linked by time and causality, presented through symbols such as text, images, and sound.

Narrative is not only a means of artistic expression but also a way for humans to understand the world and communicate experiences. With the rise of post-structuralism, narratology entered a new interdisciplinary stage, emphasizing the contextual and open-ended nature of narrative, asserting that how a narrative is understood is closely related to context and the interpretation of the reader.

Classical narratology and post-classical narratology are not opposed but complementary. Classical narratology focuses on narrative structure and grammar, while post-classical narratology explores how narrative is understood, accepted, and interpreted. In games, narrative is not just about the story content; it also concerns how the story is presented through player actions, interaction mechanics, and other elements.

This is what sets game narrative apart from traditional forms of narrative. The actions and environmental design in a game are also part of the narrative, and through these unique narrative methods, players’ sense of participation and immersion are enhanced.