A theoretical framework for interactive visual narratives (IVN)

Abstract

Interactive Visual Narrative (IVN) is a field that overlaps narratives, Human–Computer Interaction (HCI), Artificial Intelligence (AI), Virtual Reality (VR), Augmented Reality (AR), and games. In this paper, we look at a theoretical model that can be used for analysis of Interactive Visual Narratives (IVN). Existing theoretical models look either at a structuralist narrative perspective or a gaming perspective and provide the formal elements required for visual narratives, maps terms to computer games, or distinguishes levels with the intention of interactivity. These models cannot be directly used to investigate IVNs as they do not encompass the narrative as well as interactive paradigms. In this paper, we identify and examine existing narrative models, classify the elements, and analyze how the elements interact with each other to provide a sense of participation. Borrowing primarily from the conceptual model for storytelling and agency proposed by Spierling (Interactive Digital Storytelling: Towards a Hybrid Conceptual Approach, 2005a), the Static Visual Narrative (SVN) model proposed by Krishna Kumar (On Defining Visual Narratives, 2010), and narrative model applied to computer games proposed by Lindley (Story and Narrative Structures in Computer Games, 2005), we arrive at a theoretical framework for interactive visual narratives that has various levels of interactivity. The proposed model will open up a route for further investigation into the nature, behavior, and placement of IVNs.