Narratology is the study of video games as stories. Who were all of those fake princesses in Super Mario Bros.? Does skipping all of the cut scenes in Metal Gear really matter? What if I don't want to search for audio diaries in BioShock? Video games are changing how we conceive narratives in interactive digital media. The types of stories and how games tell those stories can affect playability and fun. You can find more in the materials below.
Ludology is the study of games as systems of rules, mechanics, obstacles, and goals. What is the difference between Legend of Zelda and Halo if you're just pressing a button? Ludology strips away things like characters, settings, and stories in order to examine the bare bones of games and what it means to play. Read the materials below to learn more.