Implementing Defamiliarization Techniques to Enhance Quest-Based Storytelling
Yi“ Eren” Yi“ Eren” ZHONG
Level Design
Implementing Defamiliarization Techniques to Enhance Quest-Based Storytelling
Defamiliarization is a technique originating from literary theory that can be used to subvert player expectations and create novel, thought-provoking experiences. This thesis explores how players react to defamiliarization and how it enhances players’ narrative experience.
As games continue to evolve into a powerful storytelling medium, I chose this project to investigate innovative ways to deepen player immersion and emotional involvement. Over ten months and across three semesters, I designed two custom single-player quests using the Fallout 4 Creation Kit. One contained no unusual or unexpected elements, serving as a baseline, while the other built on the same structure but incorporated five selected
defamiliarization techniques. These two levels helped to more effectively isolate the influence of defamiliarization, enabling a focused examination of its effects on player engagement and narrative perception.
Through this process, I honed my skills in level design, narrative structuring, playtesting methodology, and user analysis. Evaluating player reactions and feedback provided valuable insights into how game designers can effectively leverage defamiliarization to craft more engaging and immersive storytelling experiences.
54 LEVEL DESIGN