Gaming and Narrative

When we read, it is the narrative structure that carries us across the story. Whether a linear narrative, non-linear, quest based or viewpoint based, the narrative is how we experience a text. 

We’ve already considered Film as a modern type of literature. What else has a narrative structure and storyline that we engage in like a visual book? If like myself you’ve spent the majority of lockdown on Animal Crossing and Legend of Zelda, then you may already be aware of the literary similarities. 

Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild, for example, is a linear and non-linear game structure that includes quest based storylines. The story is presented in a linear structure until you get to a certain point in the game. Then, the open world feature changes the narrative into non-linear play. The story changes depending on your chosen area (however will always get to the same endpoint). Along the way, you have to complete side quests. These don’t heavily impact the storyline but will give you a boost in the final battle. 

This isn’t dissimilar from how traditional novels tell their stories. Obviously, it’s a little harder to include a number of different narrative structures (though not at all impossible) in novels. I’m reminded of Andrea Levy’s Small Island. The novel has two interweaving storylines that contribute to the overall. One is linear, the other non-linear. However, both are told through the characters’ viewpoints.

Do you think gaming could also be considered a literary form when viewed this way? Let me know what you think.