Description: The ‘Journey’ in the context of video games refers to the progression or path that a player takes through a game. This concept encompasses not only the sequence of levels or missions that a player completes but also the emotional and narrative experience that accompanies each step. The journey can include challenges, discoveries, and character development, as well as interaction with the environment and other characters. In game design terms, the journey is fundamental to maintaining player interest, as a well-structured narrative and meaningful progression can enhance immersion and satisfaction. Additionally, the journey can be linear or non-linear, allowing players to explore different paths and outcomes, adding a layer of complexity and personalization to the gaming experience. Today, with the advancement of technologies like Augmented Reality and game engines, the concept of journey has expanded, enabling more interactive and immersive experiences that transcend the limitations of traditional games.
History: The concept of ‘Journey’ in video games has evolved since the early arcade games of the 1970s, where progression was linear and based on point accumulation. Over time, role-playing games (RPGs) in the 1980s and 1990s began to introduce more complex narratives and non-linear paths, allowing players to make decisions that affected the story’s development. The advent of advanced game engines enabled developers to create richer and more dynamic worlds, where the player’s journey became a central element of the gaming experience.
Uses: The ‘Journey’ is used in video game design to structure the narrative and player progression. It allows developers to create immersive experiences that maintain player interest over time. Additionally, it is applied in the creation of educational and simulation games, where the user’s journey can be guided to facilitate learning and exploration. In Augmented Reality, the journey can be integrated into real-world environments, offering interactive experiences that combine digital elements with physical reality.
Examples: An example of ‘Journey’ in a video game is ‘The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild’, where players can explore a vast open world and make decisions that affect their progress. Another example is ‘Journey’, a game that focuses on the emotional experience of the player as they navigate through a desert, symbolizing a personal journey. In the realm of Augmented Reality, applications like ‘Pokémon GO’ allow players to embark on a journey through their real environment, capturing creatures and completing missions.
