Unpacking an obfuscated female protagonist: The use of mise-en-scène in minimalist videogame narrative through social semiotics

Mienke Fouché

doi:10.7557/ejcgc.v16i2.7824

Authors

Mienke Fouché Tshwane University of Technology https://orcid.org/0000-0001-5135-3648

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.7557/ejcgc.v16i2.7824

Keywords:

mise-en-scène, female protagonist, minimalism, social semiotics, ludonarratology

Abstract

This paper explores the portrayal of an obfuscated female protagonist in the minimalist videogame Unpacking, which narrates its story entirely through its mise-en-scène. Adopting a social semiotics approach, the study delves into how the socially constructed elements of the game's mise-en-scène assist players in ‘unpacking’ the protagonist's identity and narrative. Unpacking introduces a novel approach to ludonarratology by intentionally omitting the direct presence of the protagonist, instead focusing on the spaces and objects that players interact with. As players progress through the protagonist's life, these spaces and objects become laden with social significance, creating a shared history between the player and the protagonist. The game diverges from traditional storytelling methods, offering an environment where the story is pieced together through the objects unpacked in each new space the protagonist inhabits. These objects serve as signifiers of her memories, aspirations, and life stages, evolving beyond mere gameplay elements into artefacts that shape her life story. A significant aspect of this paper is its discussion of the novel portrayal of a female protagonist who is omitted from visual representation. Rather than focusing on her physical appearance, the game emphasises unearthing her identity through gameplay, allowing players to discover who she is. The game exemplifies how minimalist narrative techniques, rooted in social semiotics, can foster rich and engaging storytelling experiences. By omitting a visible protagonist, Unpacking allows players to explore and interpret the narrative through the spaces and objects they encounter and the connections they establish between them. This article's significance lies in its examination of Unpacking as a case study for understanding how minimalist narrative techniques can effectively convey a complex and emotionally resonant story through unconventional means.

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