Mechanics and Narrative: FPS

Last time we looked at how narrative and mechanics are intertwined (or not) in horror games, and today we'll take a look at first-person shooters.

At first glance the mechanics of FPS games don't seem to be terribly linked to the narrative except for the fact that you shoot things, which means that the story tends to be about shooting things. That's pretty much a given - they are called first-person shooters, after all. It's kind of like saying that horror games are about scary things.

The interesting thing about FPS games is the camera angle. 

The FPS camera simulates your character's eyes. You see what the character sees, from their perspective, and control where they look. The strength of this camera angle is the sense of immersion it can provide - you're not following some guy around, you are that guy. So, generally speaking, the FPS mechanics that have the greatest impact on the narrative are the ones that affect your sense of immersion.

Duke Nukem Forever

Post-Launch Review

Duke Nukem Forever

Developer: 3D Realms / Gearbox / Triptych / Pirhana

Publisher: 2K Games

Released: June 14 2010

About

Duke Nukem Forever is the once-mythical continuation of the classic Duke Nukem series of the 90's. The game was announced in 1997 under development by 3D Realms, who every once in a while released screenshots and video but never a game. As the years rolled by, Duke Nukem Forever became a running joke in the industry — no one really believed or hoped that it would ever come out. But after the publisher took legal action for breach of contract and 3D Realms was taken off the project, Gearbox and others finally finished and released the game after fourteen years, to the excitement of Duke fans everywhere.

Twelve years after defeating the alien invaders in Duke Nukem 3D, Duke is a famous worldwide icon with product endorsements, talk show appearances, and yes, a video game. Then the aliens come back — but this time they're peaceful. The President orders Duke not to interfere in the hope of establishing diplomatic relations, so Duke retires to the Duke Cave. But of course, the aliens attack and steal our women, and Duke fights back.