Non-linear Storytelling for Interactive Media

Lecture Handouts

| list of learning resources | abstract |

Linear Vs. Non-Linear Story Forms: A Contrast

Traditional Story

  1. Outward Structure. Has a beginning, middle, and end. Goes from point A to point B.
  2. The reader follows the author's "lead".
  3. Subsequent readings of the same text will have the same result.
  4. The story experience is like crawling through a single tunnel at Discovery Zone.
  5. The story experience is created by the author only.
  6. Most texts single-authored.
  7. Text and graphics.
  8. Available at stores everywhere; bought by a single reader.

Hypertext Story

  1. More of a concept or story environment. Open ended.
  2. Reader creates his own dance on the author's floor.
  3. Subsequent readings will have very different results; a new story each time.
  4. Like exploring all the turns and tunnels at Discovery Zone; impulsive, spontaneous.
  5. Author/reader collaboration.
  6. Co- and multiple-authored.
  7. Text, graphics, sound, animation and film.
  8. Available on the Internet, possible group reading, group creation: Hypertext Hotel.

Last modified 7 APR 97 by Sandro Corsi.