Narrative-Based Serious Games

The relationship between story and activity in games is complex. The nature of traditional dramatic narrative implies passive consumption of content. Games, however, require active participation where the player undertakes a series of tasks to pursue some overarching goal. This paper explores the narrative models available to game designers and examines in detail the approach taken for a recent serious game. The objective of any learning resource is the development of skills within its given area. Many games deploying an encompassing narrative offer the player a role as a character within the dramatic storyline. However, this artificial projection can undermine the validity and transferability of the experience out of the representational universe of the game, thereby reducing its educational value. In spite of this, the compelling nature of a good story is recognised as an efficient motivator and can provide a useful structure for activity. Axon is a science-focused serious game developed for the BBC by Illumina Digital. Rather than create a fictitious conceit, Axon overlays an absorbing drama on plausible scientific mysteries that the player, as himself, must investigate. All the science is real, even if the context is constructed; therefore, the exercises and processes engaged are worthwhile facsimiles of actual scientific experiments. This model combines linear storytelling with free exploratory activity by the user. The user becomes a witness to an unfolding drama but maintains his or her ability to act independently, thereby benefiting from both a high quality story and genuine interactive freedom.