Abstract
Defamiliarization is a technique originating from literary theory that can be used to subvert player expectations and create novel and thought-provoking experiences. This thesis explores how players react to defamiliarization and how defamiliarization enhances players’ narrative experiences. The researcher designed two levels in Fallout 4. One level contained no unusual or unexpected elements, serving as a baseline, while the other level built on the same structure as the first level, but incorporated five selected defamiliarization techniques. By analysing player reactions and feedback, the researcher gained insights into how game designers can effectively leverage defamiliarization to craft more engaging and immersive storytelling experiences.
Degree Date
Spring 2025
Document Type
Thesis
Degree Name
M.I.T.
Department
Level Design
Advisor
Katie Wood Clark
Acknowledgements
I would like to express my sincere gratitude to Professors Katie Wood Clark, Mike Porter, and Karl Steiner for their academic guidance and valuable insights throughout the development of this thesis. I am also deeply thankful to my fellow classmates in C33 for their collaboration and mutual support along the way. Special thanks go to all the participants who took part in the playtesting—your time and feedback made this research possible and meaningful. Lastly, I want to thank my family and my better half for always being by my side, offering love and strength throughout this journey.
Format
Creative Commons License
This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-Noncommercial 4.0 License
Recommended Citation
Zhong, Yi, "Implementing Defamiliarization Techniques to Enhance Quest-based Storytelling" (2025). Level Design Theses and Dissertations. 20.
https://scholar.smu.edu/guildhall_leveldesign_etds/20
