|
|
|
|
|
|
Alternative Reality Gaming is a multi-player format.
In an ARG the players are Detectives. It is their role to gather clues and work together to piece the storyline into a coherent format. Although most these games are web based they do not use one specific format and because of this clues can be found through various technologies such as phones and television and in various mediums such as physical locations and objects.
ARGs play on the idea that ‘This is not a Game’. While they don’t set out to fool players into thinking the narrative of the game is true they draw players into a world where they suspend their disbelief.
Because of this ARGs tend to recruit players by intriguing them rather than actively asking them to play. The inclusion of lots of different types of media helps to increase the illusion of reality.
Most ARGs also incorporate ‘white space’ into the plot. This means that while a basic plot structure and most media elements are in place from the launch of the game the overall story has the freedom and flexibility to be influenced by players’ actions.
An ARG features characters that are actively controlled by the Puppetmasters (game creators) and a story that unfolds in real-time and develops according to player involvement. Depending on the level of player involvement, the story can unfold over a series of days, weeks, months or even years.
This differs from other games where characters are programmed with a predetermined set of reactions and are controlled by artificial intelligence like in traditional computer or console game. Players interact directly with characters in the game in order to complete plot-based challenges and puzzles.
Alternate Reality Games are, in every sense, collaborative stories which fabricate and enhance their own unique version of reality. The games and narrative can react and adapt depending on player interaction, adding to their value and significance.