The Invisible Wall: A Critical Examination of Fourth Wall Breaks in Video Games

Research output: Chapter in Book/Report/Conference proceedingConference contributionpeer-review

Abstract

This paper explores how the fourth wall concept has evolved from traditional media to video games, focusing on its influence on player experience. Video game players, as active participants, prompt a reevaluation of the fourth wall by engaging directly with the narrative. We analyze the use of complex narrative techniques, especially fourth wall breaks, to enhance player immersion and agency. Recognizing players as essential components of the game's architecture highlights the need for updated theoretical frameworks that address the intricate interactions between game narratives and player engagement. This research demonstrates that fourth wall breaks not only enrich narrative involvement but also fundamentally transform player participation, providing new insights into the narrative dynamics of video games and their impact on player experience.

Original languageEnglish
Title of host publication 2024 IEEE Conference on Games (CoG)
PublisherIEEE Computer Society
Pages1-4
Number of pages4
ISBN (Electronic)9798350350678
ISBN (Print)9798350350678, 9798350350678, 9798350350678, 9798350350678, 9798350350678, 9798350350678, 9798350350678, 9798350350678, 9798350350678, 979-8-3503-5068-5
DOIs
Publication statusPublished - 5 Aug 2024
Event6th Annual IEEE Conference on Games, CoG 2024 - Milan, Italy
Duration: 5 Aug 20248 Aug 2024

Publication series

Name2024 IEEE Conference on Games (CoG)

Conference

Conference6th Annual IEEE Conference on Games, CoG 2024
Country/TerritoryItaly
CityMilan
Period5/08/248/08/24

Bibliographical note

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Keywords

  • Video games
  • Focusing
  • Games
  • Transforms
  • Media
  • Complexity theory

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