Streaming Media

Abstract

The goal of this study is to demonstrate the effect, specifically the emotional impact, embedded narrative practices have on players in survival-horror games. The researcher tested this through a constructed artifact level in Half-Life 2, where the player must collect resources and solve puzzles while being exposed to a collection of embedded narrative scenes. Mixed-methods data and analysis were conducted using multiple approaches, incorporating both qualitative and quantitative data from participant survey responses, accompanied by facial recognition technology to assess potential emotions and engagement levels. Results revealed that most testers did feel an increased emotional response to embedded narrative content that had strong incorporation of best practices. While nearby gameplay and the gradual increase of emotion experienced displayed mixed results, best practices did reveal a positive association with narrative understanding and emotional reaction.

Degree Date

Spring 2026

Document Type

Thesis

Degree Name

M.I.T.

Department

Level Design

Advisor

Myque Ouellette

Second Advisor

Aleshia Hayes

Acknowledgements

With gratitude, thank you to Professor Myque Ouellette who not only served as the primary advisor while carrying out this thesis, but also as an instructor who fostered the mastery and understanding that permitted the project. Also, a large thank you to the many professors who offered consultation, guidance, and encouragement throughout the artifact formation and testing processes: Dr. Aleshia Hayes, Professor Katie Wood Clark, Dr. Karl Steiner, and Professor Mike Porter. Additionally, thank you to the playtesters for their participation and peers of SMU Guildhall for their endless support.

Format

.pdf

Creative Commons License

Creative Commons Attribution-Noncommercial 4.0 License
This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-Noncommercial 4.0 License

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WalkerP_LDThesis_Defense.pdf (7813 kB)
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