From Multi-Platform to Multi-Spatial-Temporal: The Evolution Mechanism of Cross-Media Narratives in Open-World Games

Haoran Li

doi:10.47297/wspciWSP2516-252724.20250906

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From Multi-Platform to Multi-Spatial-Temporal: The Evolution Mechanism of Cross-Media Narratives in Open-World Games

Volume 9, Issue 6

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From Multi-Platform to Multi-Spatial-Temporal: The Evolution Mechanism of Cross-Media Narratives in Open-World Games
From Multi-Platform to Multi-Spatial-Temporal: The Evolution Mechanism of Cross-Media Narratives in Open-World Games
School of Design, Hong Kong Polytechnic University, Hong Kong, 999077, China
Vol. 9, Issue 6, Pages: 108-114(2025)
Published：30 December 2025
DOI：10.47297/wspciWSP2516-252724.20250906
Accepted：

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Li Haoran.From Multi-Platform to Multi-Spatial-Temporal: The Evolution Mechanism of Cross-Media Narratives in Open-World Games[J].Creativity and Innovation,2025,09(06):108-114.
DOI：

Li Haoran.From Multi-Platform to Multi-Spatial-Temporal: The Evolution Mechanism of Cross-Media Narratives in Open-World Games[J].Creativity and Innovation,2025,09(06):108-114. DOI： 10.47297/wspciWSP2516-252724.20250906.

摘要

Abstract

Open-world games have revolutionized interactive storytelling

with cross-media narratives becoming a key feature. These narratives span multiple platforms

enhancing player engagement and deepening the narrative experience. While cross-media storytelling is well-explored in traditional media

its application in open-world games remains underexplored

particularly in how player agency and temporal-spatial dynamics influence narratives across platforms. This study uses case studies of The Witcher 3 and Red Dead Redemption 2

applying qualitative methods including content analysis and comparative research to examine how these games evolve narratives across different media formats. The study finds that The Witcher 3 uses branching narratives shaped by player choices

while Red Dead Redemption 2 focuses on character development through episodic missions. Both games use time and space to influence the story

with The Witcher 3 offering flexible timelines and Red Dead Redemption 2 linking time to character arcs. This research advances the understanding of cross-media storytelling in open-world games

offering insights for both game developers and scholars interested in interactive narratives and media convergence.

关键词

Keywords

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