Proceedings of the 2023 International Conference on Data Science, Advanced Algorithm and Intelligent Computing (DAI 2023)

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Mechanisms of Meaning: Absurdism and Realism in Game Design as Philosophical Manifestations in NieR: Automata and Metal Gear Solid

Authors
Yiyun Zhao1, *
1Beijing SMIC Private School, High School, Beijing, China
*Corresponding author.
Corresponding Author
Yiyun Zhao
Available Online 14 February 2024.
DOI
10.2991/978-94-6463-370-2_45How to use a DOI?
Keywords
Game design; narrative mechanics; absurdism; realism; player engagement
Abstract

Video games have evolved into intricate mediums, allowing players to engage with profound philosophical concepts. However, the relationship between philosophical themes and gameplay mechanics remains under-explored. Despite the rise of narrative-driven games, there is a lack of comprehensive studies examining how philosophical underpinnings influence game design and player engagement. This research investigates the synergy between game design and philosophical themes, using NieR: Automata and the Metal Gear Solid series as focal points. The analysis centers on the juxtaposition of absurdism, evident in NieR: Automata’s meta-narrative, against the realism anchoring the geopolitical narrative of the Metal Gear Solid series. Detailed dissection of gameplay mechanics demonstrates how these titles immerse players in philosophical dialogues, going beyond mere narrative exposition. The study reveals that game mechanics, when influenced by philosophical tenets, can enhance player engagement and foster deeper reflection. By intertwining gameplay and philosophy, games can serve as immersive platforms for both entertainment and intellectual exploration.

Copyright
© 2024 The Author(s)
Open Access
Open Access This chapter is licensed under the terms of the Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial 4.0 International License (http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0/), which permits any noncommercial use, sharing, adaptation, distribution and reproduction in any medium or format, as long as you give appropriate credit to the original author(s) and the source, provide a link to the Creative Commons license and indicate if changes were made.

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Volume Title
Proceedings of the 2023 International Conference on Data Science, Advanced Algorithm and Intelligent Computing (DAI 2023)
Series
Advances in Intelligent Systems Research
Publication Date
14 February 2024
ISBN
978-94-6463-370-2
ISSN
1951-6851
DOI
10.2991/978-94-6463-370-2_45How to use a DOI?
Copyright
© 2024 The Author(s)
Open Access
Open Access This chapter is licensed under the terms of the Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial 4.0 International License (http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0/), which permits any noncommercial use, sharing, adaptation, distribution and reproduction in any medium or format, as long as you give appropriate credit to the original author(s) and the source, provide a link to the Creative Commons license and indicate if changes were made.

Cite this article

risenwbib
TY  - CONF
AU  - Yiyun Zhao
PY  - 2024
DA  - 2024/02/14
TI  - Mechanisms of Meaning: Absurdism and Realism in Game Design as Philosophical Manifestations in NieR: Automata and Metal Gear Solid
BT  - Proceedings of the 2023 International Conference on Data Science, Advanced Algorithm and Intelligent Computing (DAI 2023)
PB  - Atlantis Press
SP  - 436
EP  - 449
SN  - 1951-6851
UR  - https://doi.org/10.2991/978-94-6463-370-2_45
DO  - 10.2991/978-94-6463-370-2_45
ID  - Zhao2024
ER  -