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Abstract

This thesis examines video game story construction through a cognitive linguistic approach, specifically questioning how meaning emerges in video games where there is a participatory player within the narrative. Dancygier’s (2012) theory of the emergent story argues that stories are created within the reader’s mind through the interaction of the reader with a novel. I propose that a similar process occurs when players interact with a video game, creating an emergent story and experience. This conclusion is supported by my analysis of video game design, particularly mandatory versus non-mandatory player actions and player-playable character relationships. This discussion illuminates how the video game treats the player as a separate entity from the playable character. Thus, I argue that a conjoined viewpoint is created between the player and playable character, allowing players to participate in a set sequence of narrative events while maintaining gameplay agency. When extending this theory to player enjoyment, I theorize that the emergent experience is integral to player retention and repetition, but players must also be restricted to some degree to maintain narrative cohesion. With the focus on meaning construction, this thesis provides a foundational work for approaching video games as a unique storytelling device.