39 | 2009

Browsing 39 | 2009 by Subject "media theory"

Now showing 1 - 2 of 2
  • Article
    The significance of navigation and interactivity design for readers’ responses to interactive narrative: Some conclusions from an empirical study of readers’ responses
    Pope, James (2009) , S. 1-22
    Interactive (or 'hypertext') fiction is a significant new art form because of the highly innovative narrative structures and delivery platforms it embraces, and yet in many extant examples the narrative and the delivery platform, the interface, are not happily wedded. This 'mis-match' can lead to negative experiences for readers. This paper discusses the style and usability of the interface, aiming to offer some guidance to writers. As well as considering the relevant literature, I refer to data from my empirical study of readers' responses to a range of interactive (hypertext) fiction, as supporting evidence for the conclusions offered. I argue that the design of the interface and its navigation systems are of absolutely crucial significance for readers' engagement and absorption with the narrative.
  • Article
    Watching the Game: Video Games as a Function of Performance and Spectatorship
    Ligman, Kris (2009) , S. 1-9
    This article deals with non-playing video game audience cultures and their relationships to the gaming experience. We begin by identifying some primary motivating factors behind game spectatorship, including video games’ relationship to other media such as sport and film. The article then proceeds to discuss video games specifically as enacted narratives and their impact as potential audience-friendly media. We conclude by taking another look at the current industrial/theoretical perspective of the medium and assess the possible implications non-playing game audiences may have upon video games as a developing field.