Date of Award
Winter 3-3-2021
Degree Type
Thesis
Degree Name
Master of Fine Arts (MFA)
School
School of Design
First Advisor
Caleb Foss
Second Advisor
Peter McDonald
Third Advisor
Will Meyers
Abstract
This project proposes the use of asynchronous narrative mechanics and dynamic elements of gameplay to further the player’s sense of interaction with characters and the environment of the game, inspired by interactive theatre performances such as Sleep No More. The player plants seeds in a garden which is maintained by several Non-Playable Characters, influencing both the environment and the narrative. Scenes occur according to the state of the garden, but do not wait for the player to be present. Plants grow and wilt as time passes. Sometimes the player cedes control as the characters tend to or cut down plants, often blocking access to them. The player struggles with their control over the garden and thus the narrative itself. By removing a level of player control and adding a degree of spontaneity we hope to create an environment in which the player is more dynamically involved.
Recommended Citation
Amiti, Ardian, "Designing an interactive theatre game with dynamic asynchronous play" (2021). College of Computing and Digital Media Dissertations. 29.
https://via.library.depaul.edu/cdm_etd/29