Despite advancements in technology and graphics, the fundamental mechanics of game design, such as first-person shooter (FPS) and role-playing game (RPG) structures, have remained consistent. For example, games like 'Black Myth: Wukong' showcase high production quality but still rely on gameplay mechanics similar to those from 20 years ago, such as defeating enemies and solving puzzles.
FPS games focus on first-person combat and often require quick reflexes and keyboard skills, while RPGs emphasize storytelling and character development. For instance, 'Black Myth: Wukong' is more of an FPS, whereas games like 'The Legend of Sword and Fairy' are RPGs that prioritize narrative over action.
AI and VR have the potential to enhance immersion in gaming, but their impact on core game mechanics has been limited so far. While VR can offer more realistic experiences, such as using motion controllers, it hasn't significantly altered the fundamental gameplay structures. AI, on the other hand, is primarily used for generating assets rather than revolutionizing gameplay.
Interactive narrative games allow players to influence the story through their choices, leading to multiple endings. This creates a more personalized experience, as players can explore different outcomes based on their decisions. However, the complexity of designing such games limits the number of possible endings, often resulting in a finite set of conclusions.
Go is unique because of its simple rules and infinite strategic possibilities. Unlike games with predefined storylines, Go allows players to create emergent strategies and structures within the game's framework. This makes every game of Go distinct, offering a level of depth and complexity that is not found in many other games.
Developers of interactive narrative games must design multiple storylines and endings, which can be complex and resource-intensive. For example, 'Detroit: Become Human' required thousands of pages of script to account for various player choices. Despite this, the number of possible endings is still limited, and maintaining narrative consistency across different paths is a significant challenge.
In interactive games, players have the agency to make choices that affect the story's outcome, creating a more personalized experience. However, this can also dilute the narrative's impact, as players may not feel as invested in any single outcome. Traditional storytelling, on the other hand, offers a curated experience where the author's vision is fully realized without player intervention.
The 'chosen one' trope, as seen in 'The Terminator,' revolves around a central character whose fate is crucial to the story's outcome. In 'The Terminator,' the AI attempts to eliminate John Connor, the future leader of the human resistance, to ensure its victory. This trope emphasizes the idea that certain individuals are indispensable to the narrative, often leading to high-stakes conflicts.
In 'The Terminator,' the concept of fate is central to the story, as the AI's attempt to change history by eliminating John Connor inadvertently ensures his survival. This reflects the idea that trying to alter destiny often leads to its fulfillment, a theme that resonates with classic narratives like the story of Oedipus.
AI has the potential to enhance storytelling in games by generating dynamic narratives and dialogue. However, current AI technology is limited in its ability to create meaningful, contextually rich stories. While AI can assist in asset generation and procedural content, it still struggles to match the depth and creativity of human-authored narratives.
这期节目 bro 酝酿很久。反思自己的动机,应该是希望能找到方式,利用新媒介新技术来进行 storytelling。 我们在玩游戏的时候,到底在玩什么?玩 FPS vs RPG vs RTS (实时战略),甚至下围棋的时候,我们是在做同一件事(game playing) 吗? 玩游戏 vs 欣赏故事,两者可以融合吗(就像互动电影的尝试)? 以下是 AI 收听了本期播客,总结的内容。整理的相当不错。 本期播客讨论的话题: