Undergraduate Dissertation

This dissertation takes three case studies; FireWatch, Fallout 4 and Bioshock.

FireWatch looks at narrative structures, exploring how video game structures mirror and borrow from classical theatrical structures; ultimately arguing that those versed in theatre may be more accepting of ‘tragic’ endings. Secondly, Fallout 4 looks at how postmodern artistic movements have influenced contemporary video games. Finally, Bioshock explores the function and experience of narration within video games and how they may be differently understood by considering their relation to the appearance of narrators/narration on stage.

Ultimately, this dissertation argues that, by academically exploring video games through the lens of postmodern theatre, video games themselves are worthy of the title of a postmodern art form.