In Medias Res

Ludic Narrational Structure cultural · classical

The narration begins at a dramatic point – players are thrown into the action without knowing the backstory. Orientation arises through the gradual revealing of the past while the plot advances.

Design question – At what moment does your player land at the start – and how much must they not know for it to be exciting?

Reference example – Uncharted 2: the game begins in a train carriage hanging over the abyss; how it got there you only learn afterwards. Exit: The Game: the door is already shut before you know why you are in the room.

Compatible with

• Eruption (DU-04) – An intense beginning, then contextualization.
• Wave (DU-02) – Alternation between forward action and flashback calm.