Yoway: Coupling Narrative Structure with Physical Exploration in Multi-Linear Locative Narratives

Abstract

Locative narratives can implement different modes of coupling of the physical space and the narrative content, impacting how the user experiences and understands the story. Narrative causal relations are difficult to maintain when the user can freely explore the physical environment. In this paper we focus on multiple interlaced narratives, and the relation among narrative design, physical space and interaction, and its influence on the players'' exploration mode, story comprehension, and immersion. We conducted an in-situ user study with YoWay, a locative narrative app that presents three intertwined historical fictions in the Glories area of Barcelona. Results show how users were able to combine linear navigation with simultaneous exploration of spatially close contents from interrelated storylines, achieving a good understanding of the story and engaging with the experience.