Bridging fictional game guides and imaginary games: The strange case of Vermis by Plastiboo

Tim Timvig; Carl-Erik Engqvist; Karin Danielsson

doi:10.7557/23.7913

Authors

Tim Timvig Umeå University https://orcid.org/0009-0006-8390-4137
Carl-Erik Engqvist Umeå University https://orcid.org/0000-0002-5318-1269
Karin Danielsson Umeå University https://orcid.org/0000-0003-1325-1266

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.7557/23.7913

Keywords:

fictional games, Vermis, Plastiboo, aesthetics, play, reading, guidebook

Abstract

This article proposes a widened view of fictional games by considering the game guidebook Vermis I – Lost Dungeons and Forbidden Woods (2023) by Plastiboo. Through a kaleidoscope of theoretical concepts hailing from playfulness, aesthetics, design, narratology, and literary reception, the authors engage with the issues of literary play and imaginary games. This conclusion is drawn: Vermis exemplifies a fictional game existing both parallel to a secondary world and within its own secondary world created by a factual book. Its format invites a literary play activity showcasing the playful power inherent in fictional games.

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