Cardboard semiotics

Abstract

In this paper, we propose the technique of cardboard semiotics. We explain the importance of symbolic analysis as a tool for building narrative prototypes in videogames. Borrowing from the participatory design work in the early 1990s, we suggest a means for adapting and extending this work based on the implicit participation of gamers' immediate-level stories (i.e., the gameplay with narrative implications). Our paper first introduces the concept of semiotics and explains how cardboard semiotics can function as an applied technique within the domain of videogame design and development. Next, we propose a theoretical basis for our work using a simple three act narrative structure and explore some basic concepts from narrative game design. Finally, we conclude with some simple examples of how cardboard semiotics might function in a design environment.

Educational RPG games

“…Portanto, o terceiro e último estudo de caso teve como objetivo criar um processo de autoria de aventuras educacionais de RPG. Para tanto, foram utilizados como base teórica dois trabalhos, o de Sharda (2007) e o de McDaniel et al (2009). A partir deles foi proposto o framework "Beginning, Middle and End (BME)", que foi testado e aperfeiçoado em dois cenários de uso, um no contexto escolar e outro no contexto de pesquisa.…”

“…There's also a gap in literature on supporting the authorship of educational RPG narratives, also known as RPG adventures. There are classical texts on how to write good stories (Campbell, 2008;Vogler, 2007), but there's very little on integrating narrative, game and education (Sharda, 2007;McDaniel et al, 2009), and even less references specific to RPGs (Dickey, 2006). Aiming at bridging this gap, this paper proposes a structure and a framework to support those interested in creating tabletop RPG adventures that tight together narrative, gameplay and education.…”

“…Role Playing Games depend heavily on narrative, and often rely on the integration between storyline and gameplay (Dickey, 2006;McDaniel et al, 2009). This mix is even more crucial in table-top RPGs, given that they are a collaborative storytelling experience (Hergenrader, 2011).…”

“…Semiotics is, basically, the study of signs and symbols (McDaniel et al, 2009). In terms of narrative, semiotic symbols such as character archetypes and narrative structure (Campbell, 2008) are great tools for defining pieces of storyline.…”

“…Act III is the final 25% of the game and it is when all the tension is resolved by the hero's actions. Defining these three acts constitutes the high-level story of the game (McDaniel et al, 2009).…”