Narratology and Ludology: Competing Paradigms or Complementary Theories in Simulation

Authors

  • Amy McManus
  • Andrew Hale Feinstein

Abstract

Technological innovations in simulation practice have increased the speed at which theories underpinning their study evolve. As researchers come forward to accept the task of developing these theories, differences between two philosophical positions – narratology and ludology – are sparking debate which may indicate a future paradigmatic shift. The article to follow compares and contrasts narratology and ludology within the range of simulation and non-pedagogical gaming, respectively. Divergences between the two holistic meanings are noted, overlap and synergies between the issues surrounding these meanings are discussed, and a fusion of the two is proposed for future theoretical and/or paradigmatic progress.

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Published

2014-02-24