Description: Lore in video games refers to the background story and world-building elements that enrich a game’s narrative. This concept encompasses not only the main plot but also the details that bring the game’s universe to life, such as mythologies, secondary characters, historical events, and the culture of fictional civilizations. Lore is often presented through dialogues, in-game documents, cutscenes, and other narrative mediums that allow players to immerse themselves in the experience. A well-developed lore can transform an ordinary game into a memorable experience, providing players with a sense of belonging and connection to the world they explore. Additionally, lore can influence gameplay, as players’ decisions and actions may be tied to the story and characters they encounter. In summary, lore is an essential component that enriches the narrative and immersion in video games, creating a more engaging and meaningful environment for players.
History: The term ‘lore’ comes from Old English, where it referred to oral tradition and knowledge passed down through generations. In the context of video games, its use began to gain popularity in the 1980s when games started to incorporate more complex narratives. Titles like ‘Zelda’ and ‘Final Fantasy’ laid the groundwork for the development of worlds rich in history and characters. As technology advanced, so did the ability to tell stories in video games, leading to the creation of more elaborate and detailed universes in titles like ‘The Elder Scrolls’ and ‘Dark Souls’.
Uses: Lore is primarily used to enrich the narrative of video games, providing context and depth to the main story. It applies to character creation, development of side plots, and world-building. Additionally, lore can be used to encourage player exploration and curiosity, incentivizing the search for additional information within the game. It is also employed in the creation of expansions and sequels, where existing lore is expanded and intertwined with new stories.
Examples: Examples of lore in video games include the rich history of ‘The Elder Scrolls’, which spans thousands of years of events and characters, and the universe of ‘Dark Souls’, where the narrative is revealed through item descriptions and cryptic dialogues. Another example is ‘World of Warcraft’, which features an extensive background that has been developed over multiple expansions and updates, creating a vibrant world full of history.
